Escarole Grosse Bouclée - Cichorium endivia var. latifolium

The 'Curly Endive' is a variety that offers large leaves grouped in big heads with a yellow heart. This endive can be grown both under cover and in open ground, it is suitable for spring and autumn crops. It is sown under cover from March to May and then, in open ground, from May to July for a harvest that will spread from June to October.

The 'Curly Endive' is a vegetable plant from the Asteraceae family. Its Latin name is Cichorium endivia latifolium; it is also known as Broad-leafed Endive (without being a common endive in the usual sense), White Endive, or Escarole. It comes from the wild chicory found naturally in meadows and along roadsides.

Curly Endives have a rosette habit and relatively large, wavy green leaves. The heart is white, slightly bordered with yellow. Some varieties need to be temporarily deprived of light to soften the heart and remove bitterness, while others naturally whiten.

They are hardy but more sensitive to harsh winter than wild chicories. In icy regions, providing protection such as a forcing net or tunnel is advisable.

They thrive in the garden's moderately rich, relatively moist but well-drained soil.

Curly Endive leaves are mainly consumed raw in salads but can also be cooked in juice, au gratin, with cream, braised, or in béchamel sauce.

All chicories have tonic, purifying, and slightly laxative properties.

Harvest: Curly Endives are harvested as needed and as they grow.

Storage: They can be stored in a cool place for a few days after harvesting.

Handy gardening tip: Regular hoeing and weeding is recommended, and mulching is advised in drought.