Description
Sugarloaf Chicory – 12 Seedlings
Sugarloaf Chicory (Cichorium intybus var. foliosum), known in Italian as Cicoria Pan di Zucchero, is a traditional leafy vegetable prized for its tall, tightly packed heads of light green leaves with prominent white ribs. Its crisp, tender inner leaves have a mild, slightly bitter flavour that becomes sweeter in cooler weather.
Perfect for fresh salads, sautéed vegetables, soups and traditional Mediterranean dishes, Sugarloaf Chicory can be enjoyed both raw and cooked. It grows particularly well during Malta’s cooler months and is an excellent addition to home vegetable gardens.
🌱 Growing Instructions
☀️ Sunlight: Prefers full sun, with at least 5–6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Benefits from partial afternoon shade during warmer weather.
💧 Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Regular watering encourages tender leaves and healthy head development.
🌱 Soil: Plant in fertile, well-draining soil enriched with compost or organic matter.
🌡️ Temperature: Grows best between 15°C–20°C. Cooler temperatures encourage firm heads and improve leaf flavour.
📏 Spacing: Allow approximately 30–35 cm between plants for proper head development and good air circulation.
🌾 Fertilizer: Apply a balanced vegetable fertilizer every 3–4 weeks during active growth, following product instructions.
✂️ Harvesting: Harvest when the elongated head is firm and fully developed, typically 70–120 days after transplanting, depending on the variety and growing conditions.
🌿 Local Growing Tips (Malta)
Best planting season: September to February, when temperatures are cooler and more suitable for healthy head development.
Position: Sunny vegetable gardens, raised beds or large containers with fertile soil and good drainage.
Companion plants: Carrots, onions and radishes, provided sufficient spacing is maintained.
Common issue: Excessive heat or irregular watering can cause premature flowering (bolting) and bitter leaves. Maintain consistent moisture and protect plants from intense heat.
📦 Product Information
Variety: Pan di Zucchero (Sugarloaf Chicory)
Botanical Name: Cichorium intybus var. foliosum
Plant Type: Leafy Vegetable Seedling
Quantity: 12 Seedlings per Tray
Maturity: Approximately 70–120 days after transplanting, depending on cultivar
Harvest Season: Autumn to Spring
Special Characteristics: Tall, compact heads with crisp light green leaves, tender white ribs and a pleasantly mild, slightly bitter flavour.
Important Information
Pictures shown may vary from actual product due to the live nature of the items. Some items may be out of stock for various reasons, we will issue a refund or offer alternatives should that be the case.
The price is per one tray of 12 seedlings.
