Dinosaur kale is a variety of kale (a leafy vegetable) nicknamed for its bumpy, textured leaves resembling dinosaur skin.

Other Names

Also called Tuscan kale, Italian kale, Lacinato kale, or [cavolo nero](javascript:void(0)) in Italian. It belongs to the Brassica oleracea species and grows 60-90 cm tall with dark blue-green leaves.

Characteristics

The leaves have an embossed texture, offering a sweeter, more delicate, nutty flavor than curly kale. Popular in Tuscan cuisine for dishes like minestrone and ribollita.

Recent Context

Featured in a December 4, 2025, NYT Mini Crossword as "Dinosaur ___, vegetable so-named for its bumpy green texture."