Astéracées • Cichorium Endivia var. crispum

Bellesque Curly Chicory - Organic

"A lacework of greenery that prolongs the abundance until the first shivers."

$4.49

Number of seeds 250 seeds

Developed through artisanal selection in Washington State (USA) by seed producer and breeder John Navazio, and even named in homage to the town of Bellingham ("Bellesque") where it originated, this chicory was designed to thrive in cool, humid climates . It forms a compact, curly rosette , light green with white veins, and a heart that naturally whitens. Its mild flavor, balanced with a touch of bitterness, makes it a choice salad green for autumn harvests.

Like other curly endives, it thrives in a sunny to partially shaded location and prefers loose, rich, well-drained soil. Hardy down to -1°C , it is sown in late summer for a harvest before the onset of severe frost. With low disease resistance, it is ideal for cooler-season vegetable gardens .

Growing climate: Cool to cool temperate climate
Sowing difficulty level: Easy
Care required: Occasional

Versatile, Bellesque curly endive lends itself to a multitude of culinary preparations. The young, pale, and delicate heart leaves are delicious raw in salads, adding volume, crunch, and a touch of bitterness that makes them perfect for appetizers. A classic Lyonnaise salad—curly endive with bacon—perfectly showcases these tender curls enhanced with bacon and a warm vinaigrette. The outer, greener leaves, with their more pronounced flavor, benefit from being lightly cooked: they can be quickly braised, sautéed in olive oil, or added sliced to soups and stews to enjoy their flavor without excessive bitterness.