Ornamental Kale in Australia: Winter’s Unexpected Star for Floral Designers 🌿

Bespoke Bouquet at M&K Florist

Floral designers are always seeking fresh texture, bold structure, and unexpected seasonal elements — and ornamental kale ticks all three boxes. Especially during the cooler months in Australia, when traditional blooms are limited, this vibrant, leafy “flower” offers sculptural charm and rich colour that elevates winter floral arrangements.

Whether for bouquets, centrepieces, installations, or retail displays, ornamental kale is a statement-making botanical that thrives when others fade.

Image credit: Helen - White & Green Ornamental Kale with mix native flowers.

Ornamental kale is available in deeply saturated, layered tones, ideal for elegant, moody, or modern arrangements.

Popular varieties used by florists:

• Purple & Plum: Deep violet centres with green or grey outer leaves. Adds drama and contrast to soft-toned florals like dusty roses.

• Rose & Blush Pink: Delicate, romantic tones that mimic garden roses. Perfect for vintage or rustic wedding themes.

• Cream & White: Frosted and minimalist, ideal for neutral palettes or to brighten darker seasonal colours.

• Green: Classic, robust outer leaves frame the colours and create a natural, cabbage-rose look.

  

  

  

  

  Photos were taken by M&K Florist

  🌼 Symbolism & Meaning

  Though not traditionally included in the language of flowers, ornamental kale has developed symbolic meaning, especially in modern garden and floral design:

  • Endurance & Resilience: It stands tall and colourful through the harshest conditions, making it a symbol of strength and perseverance.

  • Beauty in Unexpected Places: As a member of the cabbage family, it's a reminder that elegance can be found where you least expect it.

  • Renewal: Grown in the off-season, it represents growth and regeneration during a time of rest for most gardens.

    It fits beautifully with themes like:

    • Farmhouse winter weddings

    • Minimalist or industrial styling

    • Botanical wellness arrangements

    • Sustainable design — since it’s long-lasting and grown locally

  Used in centrepieces, wreaths, or planted, ornamental kale brings an artful, architectural beauty to cool-season landscapes.

  

  Photo courtesy of M&K Florist

✂️ Care & Handling Tips for Florists

• Hydration: Re-cut stems at an angle and hydrate for 4–6 hours before use.

• Remove lower leaves to prevent bacterial growth in water.

• Long vase life: Up to 2 weeks if well cared for.

• Versatility: Works well in hand-tied bouquets, foam-free designs, or large-scale installations.

• Scent: Slight earthy scent — not overpowering, but best balanced with fragrant blooms or herbs.

🌸 Final Thoughts

In a season when traditional florals are scarce, ornamental kale is a bold, textural hero for Australian florists. It brings structural depth, unique seasonal symbolism, and a refreshing twist on floral form — all while supporting local growers and sustainable design values.

If you're looking to elevate your winter arrangements, add kale to your palette — it’s not just a vegetable, it’s winter’s most stylish bloom.

M&K FLORIST