Crambe cordifolia
Perennial

USDA Zones: 5 - 8
Light: sun
Height:  4 to 6 feet
Width:  2 to 4 feet
Flower Colors: gray-white flowers
Bloom Time: summer
Special Features:
Flowers
Tolerates Wet Soil
Companion Plants:
Taller roses

Often mistaken from a distance as an oversized baby's-breath, crambe sends up a wonderful giant spray of delicate white flowers as tall as 6 feet in early summer. The flowers are held on strong stalks rising from cabbage-like green leaves. It's great for the middle or back of the flower bed or border, and is a pretty complement to taller roses.

Notable Varieties
Crambe maritima, also known as sea kale, grows just 2 feet and tolerates the sand and salt found in seaside conditions.

Care
Likes average to rich, well-drained soil that is neutral to alkaline. Needs ample moisture; never allow to dry out. Fertilize with a slow-release fertilizer according to package directions, or add a layer of compost to the surrounding soil a few times each year. The tall flower stalks usually need loose staking. Trim off fading stalk to prevent reseeding. Usually doesn't need dividing.

Planting
Plant established plants in spring in all zones or also in fall in Zones 7 to 9. Work in ample compost at planting time.

Pests and Diseases
Depending on the climate, it can be pest- and disease-free, or troubled by caterpillars and aphids.