Endive 'Pancalieri'

'Pancalieri' is a traditional Italian endive variety characterized by its large, upright head and deeply cut, frilly green leaves. It is particularly valued for its tolerance to cold, making it an excellent choice for autumn and early winter salads in the UK. The flavor is pleasantly bitter, a characteristic of endives that adds depth to mixed salads. To reduce the bitterness and produce a tender, pale heart, the center of the plant can be 'blanched' by covering it with a plate or tying the leaves together for two weeks before harvest. 'Pancalieri' is more robust than many other salad greens and is less prone to rotting in damp weather. It prefers a fertile, well-drained soil and consistent moisture. Sowing is best done from June to August for an autumn harvest. It is a sophisticated salad green that is much-prized by chefs for its texture and complex flavor profile. It can also be lightly sautéed as a side dish.

Sun: Full sun to partial shade.

Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil.

Hardiness: H3 — down to −5°C.

Flowering: Jul, Aug.