Champion collards are a very popular heirloom variety known for their high yields, compact growth, and exceptional cold hardiness. Developed in 1979 by the Virginia Agricultural Experiment Station, this variety is an improved selection of the classic "Vates" collard, bred specifically to resist bolting (flowering prematurely) in the heat and to stay fresh in the garden longer.
Champion produces large, dark blue-green leaves with a slightly crumpled (savoyed) texture and a thick, waxy coating that provides natural protection against cabbage worms. The plants typically grow between 24 and 36 inches tall and form upright rosettes, making them suitable for smaller garden spaces or large containers.
They have a mild, traditional cabbage-like flavor that is widely considered to become sweeter after a light frost. One of its standout features is that harvested leaves retain their eating quality for up to two weeks longer than other varieties. 60-75 days.