Curly Chicory Grosse Pancalière organic seeds

'Grosse Pancalière' Curly Endive is an essential variety for summer crops, appreciated for its robustness and productivity. Resistant to heat and moderate drought, it offers a generous harvest of crunchy, finely cut leaves. This biennial vegetable plant forms a dense rosette, with a heart that naturally whitens due to the tight arrangement of its leaves. It is versatile and can be consumed raw, in refreshing salads, and cooked like spinach. Sow from May to August, for a first harvest approximately three months later.

'Grosse Pancalière' Curly Endive, also known as "Riccia Pancalieri" and "Green Curled Upright", originates from Italy, specifically from the region of Pancalieri in Piedmont. This locality is known in market gardening, especially the curly endives, which have been selected there for their agronomic and taste qualities. Although this variety is commonly grown in France and other countries, its Italian origin is evidenced by its name and historical connection to this region. This variety offers generous foliage, increased resistance, and a naturally tender heart. It is prized for its taste and ease of maintenance.

Originating from the Mediterranean, Wild Chicory (Cichorium intybus) belongs to the Asteraceae family and bears the botanical name of Cichorium endivia crispum. The wild species grows spontaneously in meadows and along paths in Europe.

In the garden, curly endives form an elegant rosette of narrow, finely curled green leaves. They adapt to any moderately rich soil, provided it is well-drained and kept slightly moist. Although relatively hardy, they do not tolerate intense frosts well: a protective cover or tunnel is advisable in regions with harsh winters. Some varieties require blanching by depriving them of light to soften any bitterness, but the 'Grosse Pancalière' benefits from natural blanching, simplifying its cultivation.

In the kitchen, its leaves are delicious raw in salads but also cooked in gratins, saucy dishes, braised, or simply creamed. In addition to its culinary qualities, chicory is known for its tonic, purifying, and slightly laxative virtues; it is a valued health asset.

Harvest as needed by cutting the outer leaves to allow the rosette to continue to develop. Chicories can be stored for a few days in a cool place after harvest, but are best consumed quickly.

For successful cultivation, regular hoeing and weeding are necessary, and consider mulching in case of drought to maintain soil moisture.