What hardiness zones is Brassica oleracea 'Purple of Sicily' suitable for?

Brassica oleracea 'Purple of Sicily' is suitable for USDA hardiness zones 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b.

What are the sun requirements for Brassica oleracea 'Purple of Sicily'?

Brassica oleracea 'Purple of Sicily' requires full sun.

How much water does Brassica oleracea 'Purple of Sicily' need?

Brassica oleracea 'Purple of Sicily' has moderate to high, consistent moisture water needs.

Brassica oleracea 'Purple of Sicily', Purple of Sicily Cauliflower

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Vegetables

Brassica oleracea 'Purple of Sicily'

Purple of Sicily Cauliflower

BrassicaceaeMediterranean

At a Glance

Typevegetable

Habitupright

Foliagedeciduous

Height18-24 inches

Width18-24 inches

Growing Zones

USDA Hardiness Zones

3a - 9b

Zone 3a

Zone 3b

Zone 4a

Zone 4b

Zone 5a

Zone 5b

Zone 6a

Zone 6b

Zone 7a

Zone 7b

Zone 8a

Zone 8b

Zone 9a

Zone 9b

These zones indicate the coldest temperatures this plant can typically survive.

Frost Tolerancesemi-hardy

Key Features

Container Friendly

Maintenancemoderate

Overview

Brassica oleracea 'Purple of Sicily' is a striking heirloom cauliflower cultivar renowned for its vibrant purple-violet colored heads. This cool-season vegetable produces dense, compact curds that range from deep purple to violet, with the intensity of color enhanced by cool temperatures. The purple pigmentation comes from anthocyanins, which provide additional antioxidant benefits. The plant forms a sturdy rosette of blue-green leaves that wrap protectively around the developing head, typical of cauliflower varieties. Unlike white cauliflower, Brassica oleracea 'Purple of Sicily' maintains its colorful appearance even when cooked, though it may fade slightly to a purplish-blue hue. The heads are medium-sized, typically weighing 1-2 pounds when mature, with a texture and flavor similar to traditional white cauliflower but with a slightly nuttier, more complex taste profile.

Native Range

Brassica oleracea is native to the Mediterranean region and western Europe, where wild forms can still be found growing along rocky coastlines. The species has been cultivated for thousands of years, with various forms including cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower developed through selective breeding.

Suggested Uses

Brassica oleracea 'Purple of Sicily' works well in vegetable gardens, raised beds, and large containers. Excellent for fresh eating, roasting, steaming, and adding colorful appeal to vegetable dishes. The striking purple color makes it perfect for farmers markets or as an ornamental edible in landscape designs. Can be used in all recipes calling for traditional cauliflower while providing additional visual interest and nutritional benefits.

How to Identify

Brassica oleracea 'Purple of Sicily' can be identified by its distinctive purple to violet-colored cauliflower heads, which set it apart from white varieties. The plant has broad, blue-green leaves with prominent white veins that form a protective rosette around the developing head. The leaves are thick and waxy with slightly ruffled edges. The purple coloration is most intense in cool weather and may appear more muted in warmer conditions. The compact, dense curd structure is typical of cauliflower, but the striking purple color makes this cultivar unmistakable.

Appearance

Size & Dimensions

Height1'6" - 2'

Width/Spread1'6" - 2'

Colors

Flower Colors

yellow

Foliage Colors

blue

green

Bloom Information

Bloom Period

Spring

spring if allowed to bolt (typically harvested before flowering)

Detailed Descriptions

Flower Description

small yellow flowers if allowed to bolt

Foliage Description

blue-green with white veins

Growing Conditions

Sun Requirements

Full Sun

• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight

• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight

• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight

Soil Requirements

pH Range6.0 - 7.0(Neutral)

357912

Drainage

moist

Water & Climate

Water Needs

moderate to high, consistent moisture

Frost Tolerance

semi-hardy

Time to Maturity

80-85 days

Care & Maintenance

Care Guide

Brassica oleracea 'Purple of Sicily' requires consistent care for optimal head development. Provide regular, deep watering to maintain soil moisture, as drought stress can cause heads to become loose and bitter. Feed with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks, with additional nitrogen during early growth stages. Maintain soil pH between 6.0-7.0 for best nutrient uptake. Cool temperatures enhance purple coloration, so plant for harvest in cooler months. Watch for common brassica pests like cabbage worms, aphids, and flea beetles, using row covers when necessary.

Pruning

Brassica oleracea 'Purple of Sicily' requires minimal pruning. Remove any yellowing or damaged outer leaves to improve air circulation and prevent disease. Do not remove healthy leaves as they provide energy for head development. Harvest the main head when it reaches full size but before it begins to separate or flower. After harvesting the main head, smaller side shoots may develop and can be harvested as baby vegetables.

Maintenance Level

moderate

Container Growing

✓ Suitable for container growing

⚠️ Toxicity Warning

Brassica oleracea 'Purple of Sicily' is completely safe and edible for humans. All parts of the plant are non-toxic to pets, though the leaves may cause mild digestive upset if consumed in large quantities. The purple heads are rich in anthocyanins and provide the same nutritional benefits as other brassica vegetables.

Planting Guide

Planting Methods & Timing

Planting Method

transplant

Indoor Start

6 weeks before last frost

Direct Sow Timing

early spring or late summer for fall harvest

Days to Maturity

80–85 days

Plant Spacing

18 inches

Companion Planting

Good Companions

broccoli

cabbage

kale

onions

garlic

herbs

lettuce

Avoid Planting With

tomatoes

peppers

strawberries

beans