Colewort Crambe cordifolia

Names

• Family

  Brassicaceae

• Synonyms

  Colewort, Giant Sea Kale, Greater Sea Kale, Heartleaf Crambe

• Common names

  Notobassia cordifolia, Crambe cordata

Toxicity

• To humans

  Crambe cordifolia, commonly known as colewort, is not widely recognized as a toxic plant to humans. There is limited information regarding its toxicity, and it does not typically appear on lists of poisonous plants. However, like many plants, it could cause a reaction or be potentially harmful if a person has specific allergies or sensitivities. In general, eating ornamental plants is not advised and doing so could result in gastrointestinal discomfort or other symptoms depending on individual tolerance and the quantity consumed.

• To pets

  Colewort (Crambe cordifolia) is also not commonly known to be toxic to pets. There is a lack of specific reports on its toxicity towards domestic animals such as dogs and cats. As with humans, general caution should be taken to prevent pets from ingesting plants that are not intended for consumption as they may experience gastrointestinal upset or other adverse reactions if they are sensitive to the plant. Always monitor pets around ornamental plants and consult a veterinarian if any unusual signs of illness appear after ingestion.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  White

• Height

  6 feet (1.8 meters)

• Spread

  4 feet (1.2 meters)

• Plant type

  Herb

• Hardiness zones

  7

• Native area

  Caucasus

General Benefits

• Ornamental Value - Crambe cordifolia, commonly known as Colewort, is valued for its impressive cloud of frothy white flowers which add a striking visual element to gardens and landscapes.
• Drought Tolerance - Once established, Colewort is tolerant of drought conditions, making it suitable for gardens in arid climates or for water-wise gardening practices.
• Attracts Pollinators - The abundant flowers of Colewort attract a range of pollinators including bees and butterflies, which are beneficial for garden biodiversity and pollination of other plants.
• Low Maintenance - Colewort is relatively low maintenance, requiring minimal care once it is established, which makes it a convenient choice for gardeners of all skill levels.
• Erosion Control - With its large leaves and deep rooting system, Colewort can help stabilize soil and control erosion on slopes and in garden settings.
• Architectural Interest - The tall stature and large, bold foliage of Colewort adds architectural interest to garden designs, offering a good background plant for borders or as a focal point.

Medical Properties

This plant is not used for medical purposes.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Colewort can be grown as a natural barrier or privacy screen due to its large size and dense foliage, which can provide a visual block in gardens or landscapes.
• The plant's robust nature makes it suitable for combating soil erosion, particularly on slopes or in areas with loose soil that require stabilization.
• With its ability to thrive in coastal environments, Colewort can be used in seaside gardens to create a rustic, wild aesthetic resistant to salty winds.
• This species serves as an excellent background plant in mixed borders, contributing height and texture to support other flowering plants in the design.
• The plant's flowers can be cut and used in large floral arrangements, providing a dramatic, airy effect with their cloud-like clusters of white blossoms.
• Colewort leaves can be used in compost heaps as a green layer, contributing to the nutrient balance necessary for successful decomposition.
• Due to its mass of leaves and deep root system, Colewort is suitable for planting on steep banks to help absorb rainwater and reduce runoff.
• The plant can be used as part of wildlife-friendly gardens to offer a habitat for insects, particularly as its flowers are attractive to different species of bees.
• Gardeners can grow Colewort for the purposes of creating microclimates within the garden, as its size offers shade and shelter to more delicate plants.
• In large public parks or open spaces, Colewort can be used to create a visual impact with its bold foliage and height, making it a feature plant in landscape design.

Feng Shui

The Colewort is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Colewort is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Resilience: Crambe cordifolia, also known as Colewort, is known for its ability to withstand tough environmental conditions, symbolizing the human capacity to endure and thrive in the face of challenges.
• Adaptability: As a plant that can grow in various types of soils, Colewort represents the ability to adapt to different situations and remain flexible.
• Abundance: With its mass of small, delicate flowers, Colewort can signify abundance and the multitude of opportunities or blessings that life can offer.
• Bounty of nature: The prolific nature of Colewort, producing many flowers and seeds, embodies the generous and giving aspects of the natural world.
• Protective qualities: The plant's large leaves and height can provide shelter to smaller plants and animals, symbolizing protection and support within a community or ecosystem.