Red Russian-Organic

An attractive variety with large leaves, softer than other varieties. Has dark reddish-purple main stems, especially when young, light purple leaf stems, and tender silvery/light green leaves that tend to turn red when exposed to cold weather. Leaf surfaces are a little frilly but mostly flat, with scalloped edges. The plants can get quite large, 4+ feet tall and higher when going to seed. Leaves remain edible (not bitter) at any size or stage, although large ribs should be removed from large leaves. Cold tolerant. Frosts and freezes improve flavor.