Curly Endive 'De Meaux'

'De Meaux' is a classic French heirloom variety of curly endive, also known as Frisée. It is a beautiful and productive vegetable for the UK garden, forming a large, spreading rosette of deeply laciniated, fine, bright green leaves. As the plant nears maturity, the dense heart naturally blanches to a creamy-yellow colour, which provides a more delicate, less bitter flavour compared to the outer leaves. This variety is particularly valued for its autumn and early winter harvests, as it is relatively cold-tolerant, though it may require some protection from heavy frosts or excessive winter wet. In the kitchen, 'De Meaux' adds a sophisticated crunch and a mild peppery-bitter edge to gourmet salads, pairing perfectly with lardons, poached eggs, or blue cheese. It should be grown in a sunny position in fertile, well-drained soil. To achieve the sweetest flavour, the plants should be kept well-watered to grow rapidly without stress. Mid-summer sowings are ideal for harvesting late in the year.

Sun: Full sun to partial shade.

Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil.

Hardiness: H3 — down to −5°C.