Point Bonita Cabbage

Point Bonita Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. oleracea): Parent plants came from the feral population of cabbages that grow around the Point Bonita Lighthouse in Sausalito, CA. They escaped cultivation at the turn of the century and have since naturalized on the cliffs overlooking the Pacific, similar to the habitats of their wild progenitors of the Mediterranean coast. The seeds were collected from plants grown in my urban garden in Oakland, CA. They are very hardy and can grow in tough conditions. They look and taste like collards. Directions: Start indoors or direct sow. In Bay Area, start planting January-March. In colder climates, start after last frost or earlier indoors. Plant in area with bright sunlight to part shade. Keep soil moist after sowing. Once established, needs semi-regular watering. Can survive with very little attention. Plants grow quite large. In Bay Area, it’s a biennial and can live 2-3 years. Will flower in its second season.