Type
flat leaf, heirloom
Kale variety
Red Russian Kale
Red Russian has oak-like blue-green leaves with purple stems and a relatively mild flavor. It grows quickly and is especially good for repeated young harvests.
Days to maturity
50-60
Best for
baby greens, quick cool-season crops
About Red Russian
Red Russian is a flat-leaf kale with gray-green leaves, red to purple veins, and a tender texture. It grows quickly, handles cold very well, and is especially good for baby leaf and bunching use.
Growing Red Russian Kale
Because it is fast and tender, it is a strong choice for spring or fall sowings and for cut-and-come-again harvests. Protect young plants from flea beetles and cabbage worms, and harvest before warm weather pushes it toward bolting.
Full growing guide
For planting dates, care, and harvest that apply to all kale, see the complete guide.
How to grow KaleOther kale varieties
Variety characteristics are general guidance for US home gardens; performance varies by climate, soil, and season. Seed and plant availability differs by supplier. Page updated Aug 4, 2026.