Organic 'Purple Dragon' Carrot
Organic 'Purple Dragon' carrot (Daucus carota) from the seed company Gaia, an Afghan heritage variety with purple skin and a golden heart
The 'Purple Dragon' carrot develops well-formed, semi-long roots with a deep purple skin that contrasts beautifully with a bright orange-yellow core . The flesh is crisp and juicy , with a sweet flavor enhanced by a hint of spice , making it delicious eaten raw. The roots typically reach 18 to 20 cm in length, maintaining good uniformity even in more compact or heavy soils , thanks to their semi-long growth habit.
Originating in Afghanistan , this heirloom variety was selected and reintroduced into cultivation by Dr. John Navazio , who successfully preserved its richness in anthocyanins , responsible for its purple color, as well as its significant lycopene content . Highly decorative, 'Purple Dragon' adds striking visual appeal to salads and fresh dishes, while offering a balanced flavor. The leaves are edible , providing an additional use for the harvest.
Companion plants: Alliums, Rosemary, Sage, Beans, Lettuce, Peas, Peppers, Tomatoes
Negative plants: Coriander, Dill, Parsnip
Spread/Habit: Semi-long root system, upright foliage
Foliage height: 30 to 40 cm
Quantity per packet: 100 seeds
Certification: Environmentally friendly product
Special features: Afghan heritage variety, purple skin rich in anthocyanins, orange-yellow heart, good tolerance to heavy soils, edible leaves
Leaf color: Medium green
Texture/flavor: Crisp, sweet flesh with a spicy note
Cold tolerance: Down to -7°C
Farming method
Sow directly outdoors as soon as the ground is workable, at a depth of 1.2 cm , in loose but tolerant soil , even slightly compacted. Make successive sowings from spring until mid-summer to stagger the harvests. Thin to 2.5 to 5 cm between plants, with rows spaced 45 to 60 cm apart.
Carrots prefer partial sun (level 2) and light but regular watering (level 1) . Consistent moisture promotes intense color and optimal texture.
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest when the carrot has reached its full purple color and well-developed flavor , generally 60 to 70 days after sowing . In summer, the roots can remain in the ground for about 3 weeks after maturity , and longer in cooler autumn or winter conditions. Store at 0°C , with approximately 95% humidity and good air circulation.
Usage ideas
• Very decorative fresh salads
• Raw crunchy sticks
• Lightly cooked to preserve the color
• Colorful and nutritious juices
• Using the tops in pesto or soup
The 'Purple Dragon' carrot combines ancient heritage , spectacular aesthetics , and a rich nutritional profile , offering an expressive and robust variety. A heritage carrot that transforms each harvest into a visual and gustatory experience.
