seeds Chicory Sugarleaf - Cichorium intybus

Chicory Sugarleaf – Cichorium intybus

Introduction

Sugarleaf Chicory, also called Pain de Sucre, is a cultivated variety of wild chicory that forms compact, upright heads with pale green, crunchy leaves. Known for its mild bitterness, it's a traditional autumn vegetable that self-blanches and is easy to grow for both beginners and gourmet gardeners.

Origin and Botanical Family

• Origin: Europe

• Family: Asteraceae

• Background: Cultivated since the 17th century in Europe, especially in France and Italy, where it's valued for its winter hardiness and unique taste.

Botanical Description

• Height: 30 to 40 cm

• Form: Upright, compact head

• Leaves: Oblong, smooth, light green

• Special features: Blanches naturally as heads mature

Sowing and Growing Conditions

• Sowing period: June to July, directly in open ground

• Germination temperature: 16–20 °C

• Germination time: 10–14 days

• Depth and spacing: 1 cm deep, 25 cm between plants, 30 cm between rows

• Soil: Rich, well-drained, neutral to slightly alkaline

• Light: Full sun to partial shade

• Thinning: At 3–4 leaf stage

• Watering: Regular moisture is key for optimal development

Care and Maintenance

• Tasks: Weed regularly, mulch base, keep watered

• Blanching: In autumn, cover heads lightly with a pot or tunnel

• Pests/Diseases: Watch for slugs and fungal spots

Harvest

• Harvest period: September to November

• Signs of readiness: Head is firm, leaves paler

• Yield: 2–3 heads per m²

• Storage: Cool storage or fridge, up to 2 weeks

Garden Use

• Placement: In late-season rows

• Companion plants: Leek, onion, celery

• Rotation: Avoid following other chicories or lettuces

Culinary Use

• Taste: Crisp and lightly bitter

• Cooking: Raw in salads, steamed, braised

• Tip: Excellent paired with walnuts and soft cheese

Ecology and Curiosities

• Biodiversity: Attracts bees if allowed to flower

• Anecdote: Traditionally blanched in trenches in France

• Alternative growing: Suitable for raised beds and tunnels

A traditional fall vegetable that combines ease of growing with a refined bitterness and lovely crunch. A must-have for seasonal salad lovers.