The ESCAROLA variety of chicory represents a tightly packed version of the Bekelle type with thin leaves and a strong base, ensuring excellent shape retention even at a larger head size. The medium-sized leaves have a dark green hue, are slightly cut, and wavy at the edges, while the central vein is white, creating an attractive contrast. The rosette reaches a height of 17 cm and a diameter of 37 cm, with leaves positioned vertically to semi-vertical, making the plant convenient for further use in salad mixes.
ESCAROLA is characterized by high resistance to leaf tip burn and does not bolt even in cold conditions. Thanks to these properties, the variety is suitable for early spring planting under cover material, ensuring fast growth and good yield. The mass of a marketable plant can reach 500 g, and the overall yield is about 5.6 kg/m², making it attractive for both commercial cultivation and home consumption.
The variety was developed by Enza Zaden and is intended for fresh leaf use and cooking. Its distinctive features – dense packing, thin leaves with a strong base, and resistance to adverse climatic conditions – make ESCAROLA an ideal choice for those who value quality and reliability when growing chicory.