Escarole Ronde Verte à Coeur Plein - Cichorium endivia var. latifolium

The Round Green Hearted Endive is a particularly cold-resistant variety. This 30 to 40cm (12 to 16in) tall plant is cultivated for its whole and crispy leaves, which are consumed raw in salads. It forms a dense rosette of leaves that naturally blanch. Sow the seeds from May to July for a harvest 3 months later.

It belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is also known as wide-leafed endive (although it is not a common endive), white chicory, or escarole. It is derived from wild chicory, which is naturally found in meadows and along roadsides.

They have a rosette habit and large, wavy green leaves. The heart is white, with a slight yellow border. Some varieties need to be temporarily deprived of light to soften the heart and remove any bitterness, while others naturally blanch.

They are quite hardy, but are a little more sensitive to winter harshness than wild chicories. It is therefore advisable to provide protection such as a forcing net or tunnel, especially in colder regions.

In the garden, they thrive in moderately rich soil that is rather moist but well-drained.

The leaves are mainly consumed raw in salads, but can also be cooked in gratin, cream, or in béchamel sauce.

All chicories have detoxifying and mildly laxative properties.

Harvest: harvest as needed and as they grow.

Storage: they can be stored for a few days in a cool place after harvest.

Gardener's tip: regular hoeing and weeding are recommended. Mulching is advised in case of drought.