Kale Toscano, affectionately known as "dinosaur kale," represents an authentic Italian heirloom with documented cultivation dating to the 1700s. This distinguished variety produces distinctive crinkled, dark blue-green leaves with a textured appearance that resembles prehistoric scales—a characteristic that defines its popular nomenclature. The deeply textured leaf structure not only provides visual interest in the garden but also contributes to superior flavor development and nutrient concentration. Whether harvested as tender baby leaves in 30 days or allowed to reach full maturity in 65 days, Kale Toscano delivers exceptional culinary versatility and robust nutrition.

Germination Rate: 85%. Test Date: 8/25. OSI.

Why Choose Kale Toscano?

• Versatile Harvest: Enjoy at the baby leaf stage (30 days) or fully grown stage (65 days).
• Rich Flavor: Mild and tender with a deep, earthy kale taste.
• Weather Tolerance: Thrives in both hot and cold conditions.
• Italian Heritage: Documented cultivation since the 1700s — a true living heirloom.
• Heirloom Quality: Open-pollinated and passed down for centuries, ensuring reliable growth year after year.

Planting Tips for Success

• Sunlight: Prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade.
• Soil: Thrives in nutrient-rich, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0–7.5.
• Planting: Sow seeds directly into the soil or start indoors 4–6 weeks before last frost.
• Spacing: Space plants 12–18 inches apart to allow for full leaf development.
• Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but avoid overwatering.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting; side-dress with nitrogen mid-season for vigorous leaf growth.
• Support: No staking needed; plants are self-supporting.
• Harvesting: Pick baby leaves in 30 days or wait 65 days for mature leaves. Harvest outer leaves first to encourage continued production.

Why Choose David's Garden Seeds®?

• Veteran-Owned: Supplying premium seeds since 2009.
• GO TEXAN Certified: Supporting local agriculture and communities.
• Integrity Pledge: We pledge to sell only non-GMO, open-pollinated seeds. Read our Safe Seed Integrity Pledge.
• Vegetable Seed License: All seeds sold under our standard Vegetable Seed License.

Cooking Methods

• Italian Soups: Robust leaves withstand prolonged cooking, imparting rich, complex flavor to ribollita and minestrone.
• Raw/Salads: Baby leaves are tender and ideal for fresh salads and grain bowls.
• Kale Chips: Leaves crisp beautifully when dehydrated or oven-roasted — a nutrient-dense snack.
• Juicing & Smoothies: Mild, slightly sweet flavor blends harmoniously with fruits and vegetables.
• Sautéed: Quick sauté with garlic and olive oil for a classic Italian side dish.

Order Toscano Kale Today

Order yours today and grow your own fresh kale in your spring and fall gardens.

Nutritional Information

Per 1 cup (67g) raw Kale Toscano (Lacinato/Dinosaur Kale):

• Calories: 33
• Protein: 2.9g
• Carbohydrates: 6.7g
• Dietary Fiber: 1.3g
• Vitamin A: 206% DV
• Vitamin C: 134% DV
• Vitamin K: 684% DV
• Calcium: 9% DV
• Iron: 6% DV

Important Disclosures

• Variety Disclaimer: Growing results vary by region, climate, and gardener practice. We recommend consulting local extension services or experienced gardeners in your area.
• Seed Storage: Store seeds in a cool, dry location. Properly stored seeds maintain viability for 3–5 years.
• Planting Zones: Best suited for USDA Zones 3–9. Consult your local zone map before planting.

Grow something beautiful. Grow something delicious. Grow with David's Garden Seeds®.