Zucchini 'Costata Romanesco' organic
Organic 'Costata Romanesco' courgette (Cucurbita pepo) from the seed company Gaia, an Italian heritage with an incomparable nutty flavor
The 'Costata Romanesco' zucchini is an Italian heritage variety renowned for its delicately nutty flavor and exceptional texture. Its ribbed, light green, striped fruits have a slightly rounded shape when ripe and are particularly tender when harvested young, around 6 inches. Highly productive and flavorful, this zucchini is ideal for fresh dishes, stir-fries, grilling, or stews, where it truly shines.
Its vigorous, bushy growth makes it an excellent variety for home vegetable gardens. It produces continuously if the fruits are harvested regularly, and its thin skin makes both picking and preparation easy. Highly prized by gardeners, 'Costata Romanesco' is often considered one of the best courgettes for its flavor and culinary versatility.
Companion plants : Corn, climbing beans, peas, radishes, sunflowers, parsley, celery, buckwheat, nasturtiums, marigolds, oregano
Negative plants : Tomato, eggplant, potato, pepper
Spread/Habit : Vigorous bushy
Plant height : 45 to 60 cm
Quantity per packet : 20 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Special features : Open pollination, heirloom variety, very tasty ribbed fruit
Farming method
Sow directly outdoors in late May or early June, when the soil temperature reaches 25°C. You can also start seeds indoors 2 to 3 weeks before the last frost. To improve germination rates, soak the seeds in warm water for up to 24 hours and lightly scarify the surface before sowing.
Plant at a depth of 2.5 cm (1"). Space plants 30 to 60 cm (12 to 24") apart and rows 60 to 90 cm (24 to 36") apart. Choose a very sunny location (level 3) with rich, loose, and well-drained soil. Water regularly but moderately (level 2). Germination takes 7 to 10 days at an optimal temperature of 27 to 35°C. Plants thrive in the summer heat.
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest the fruit when it measures 4 to 5 inches, or even smaller for an ultra-tender texture. The skin should be shiny and soft to the touch. Harvest every two days to encourage continuous production.
Courgettes can be stored for 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator at 1–2°C and 90% humidity. Handle them carefully, as their thin skin can be easily damaged.
Ideas for using it in the kitchen
• Grilled or roasted, where its nutty flavor comes through perfectly
• Cut into thin julienne strips to replace pasta in light dishes
• Excellent in ratatouille or Provençal-style stir-fries
• Delicious raw in summer salads
• Ideal for zucchini fritters or soft breads
• Perfect for stuffing thanks to its compact and tasty texture
The 'Costata Romanesco' zucchini is a treasure of the Italian vegetable garden: flavorful, productive, easy to grow, and of exceptional quality. A top choice for gourmet gardeners and lovers of authentic cuisine.
