So it was far bolted like that in a pot when you bought it? Kind of strange. It will make seed pretty soon, which you can allow to self-sow for fall time.

David, you DO understand that the kale you purchased has already gone to seed, don't you? That's why it looks so pitiful. This will not be a harvestable plant as far as table fare goes. Collect a few seeds later on, if you want, as pnbrown suggests.

David - if you did buy the kale with the flower stalk already there I would try returning it to the seller. They should not have been putting a plant in that condition on sale as it is of no use in the garden except for seed, as rhizo_1 mentioned. They were taking advantage of a newby grower and no reputable seller should have had that plant on display.

I did not know it had already bolted. Like I said.... Never grew kale before and kind of bought it on a whim. The seller is over an hour away and I don't think these cost more than a few bucks but I may try to call and let them known i disappointment. I guess partially my fault, not knowing enough about it, but if I were the grower I'd at least tag it as being good for seed only and sell it at a discount. Thanks for the advise everyone. Much appreciated.

That tall stalk in the middle with the flower head on it is your clue. A young plant will be very compact, forming a tight rosette.

I think that it would be nice of you to call the seller. In truth, they should pull each plant that has bolted...not offering them for sale at all. These plants were no doubt delivered in fine shape from the actual grower, but after too much time at the seller'sthis, is simply what happens.

Concur: Red Dynasty is an ornamental kale that is normally used for winter color.That plant was probably a left over from its normal planting season. It is edible but that is not its intended purpose. If you want a kale for eating you should look at varieties developed for that purpose. Ornamental kales and cabbages do look good in winter flower beds tho. Whether or not you want to save seeds should be guided by your projected future use of the plant.

Here is a link that might be useful: Ornamental Brassicas

Thanks everyone. I might try to keep some seeds. I should have done more research before doing any purchasing but live and learn. So this is more ornamental? I'll check out some more edible varieties and plan on planting in the fall or early next spring (I assume that's correct... thats kind of what I'm getting out of this)

Is RED RUSSIAN edible? I mean its planting purpose

seysonn,
Yes, Red Russian is milder tasting than other kales, less bitter, and less fibrous. It also has greater cold tolerance but slightly less heat tolerance (in my experience). Good for late summer plantings if your summers are hot and dry.

Red Russian also self sows very effectively. I haven't had to sow any myself for years.

I'm growing Red Russian this year. It's milder and plant more than you think because it cooks down to nothing!