Organic variegated Perennial Cabbage Daubenton Popof - Brassica oleracea

The perennial cabbage Daubenton 'Popof' is a hardy and evergreen variety, sometimes called Thousand-Headed Cabbage, ideal for permaculture. It has variegated foliage. This old variety, not very sensitive to cabbage white butterflies and flea beetles, is grown for its young shoots with a taste close to broccoli. Plant it in April-May and harvest the leaves from September to May.

Like other cabbages, the perennial cabbage belongs to the Brassicaceae family (formerly Crucifers). It has a bushy habit over time and reaches a height of 90 cm (35in). It is a perennial and hardy plant that settles in the vegetable garden for several years, about 5 to 7 years. The perennial cabbage does not form a head but produces lateral shoots. These young shoots have a taste similar to broccoli and can be eaten raw or cooked. They can be cooked in various ways: in gratins, soups, stuffed, in stews, or in salads. In the vegetable garden, plant the perennial cabbage near mint or lettuce and keep it away from alliums and other cabbages. A remarkable advantage: it is not very sensitive to cabbage white butterflies and flea beetles.

Harvesting: From the 2nd year onwards, pick the shoots growing on the stems as needed, from September to May. However, the leaves will be the most tender in spring. Harvest regularly to promote a compact habit and the production of new leaves.

Storage: Consume the leaves quickly after harvesting. However, you can store them in the refrigerator for a few days.

Gardener's tip: To limit watering, we recommend mulching the soil with thin successive layers of grass clippings, if possible mixed with dead leaves. This protection, which keeps the soil moist, also limits weed growth.