Chicory 'Italian Red'
identification
description
Chicory Catalogna Rossa Italiana (Cichorium intybus), offered by the seed company Weston Seeds
Also known as Cicoria Catalogna Red Dandelion-Chicory, Chicory Catalogna Rossa Italiana is a prized heirloom leafy vegetable in Italian cuisine. It is distinguished by its medium-sized red stems and upright dark green leaves, offering a slightly bitter and tangy flavor, perfect for traditional Italian salads.
Its vigorous vertical growth allows for an early harvest in the form of tender young shoots as early as 24 days after germination or a later harvest for more developed leaves. Its unique taste is even more delicious after a light frost, making it a must-have in the fall vegetable garden.
Characteristics of the variety
Life cycle : Annual
Plant height : 30 to 40 cm (12 to 16 inches)
Spacing between plants : 30 to 35 cm (12 to 14 inches)
Exposure : Full sun
Sowing : Direct sowing
Days to maturity : 85 to 90 days
Quantity per pack : nd
Cultivation method:
Direct sow once the soil can be worked in spring. Plant seeds 3 mm (1/8") deep, spacing 45 cm (18") between rows. Maintain even moisture throughout growth to ensure good foliage quality.
Harvesting is done by cutting the leaves at least 2.5 cm (1") above the base, without touching the crown. This allows new shoots to appear, extending the harvest for sustainable production.
A rustic and tasty chicory!
Perfect for authentic Italian salads, Chicory Catalogna Rossa Italiana is a vigorous, rich-flavoured and easy-to-grow variety. Its delicate bitterness and distinctive red stem make it an original and nutritious addition to the garden and the plate.
