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Cichorium intybus 'Variegata Di Castelfranco'
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Description
This type has round, looser heads that are lightly variegated in winter, otherwise similar to 'Variegata di Chioggia', and originates from the same region of Italy. These beautiful radicchios are very decorative, and are displayed in the vegetable markets of Venice during their season.
The eye of the chicory is the sweetest part, and the better you preserve it, the sweeter it will become (wrap in newspaper and store in a cool dark room). Sow directly outdoors in early spring once all danger of frost has passed. Thin seedlings 25-30cm (10-12in) apart in the rows, and 30-38cm (12-15in) between the rows. Grow chicory in full sun in a moist, well-drained soil.