How to Grow Cicoria di Catalogna
Cicoria di Catalogna
Cichorium intybus var. catalogna
vegetableCicoria di Catalogna, also known as Catalogna chicory or asparagus chicory, is an Italian heirloom vegetable prized for its tender, leafy shoots and slightly bitter flavor. It produces a rosette of deeply cut, serrated leaves with prominent central ribs that resemble small asparagus spears when harvested young. This cool-season crop is popular in Mediterranean cuisine and valued for its nutritional content and distinctive taste.
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Example Cicoria di Catalogna timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Cicoria di Catalogna
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Cicoria di Catalogna
Around Jun 6≈ 50 days after planting
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 4-9, with best production in cooler months (fall and spring)
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Seedling
1-2 weeksTiny serrated leaves emerge within 7-10 days. Cotyledons are narrow and lance-shaped, followed by true leaves with distinctive deep cuts
Keep soil evenly moist. Thin seedlings to proper spacing once they develop 2-3 true leaves. Protect from excessive heat and direct afternoon sun if in hot climates
Vegetative Growth
3-6 weeksPlant develops a dense rosette of deeply lobed, serrated leaves. Leaves grow progressively larger and more prominent. Plant height reaches 12-18 inches
Water consistently and ensure good air circulation to prevent disease. Remove any yellowing or damaged leaves. In hot weather, provide afternoon shade to prevent bolting. Mulch to maintain soil moisture and coolness
Leaf Development & Heading
2-4 weeksCentral ribs become more pronounced and thicken. Inner leaves form tighter clusters resembling asparagus tips. Plant may produce flower buds at the center
This is the prime harvest stage. Begin harvesting outer leaves or inner tender shoots. Cool nights promote better leaf development and reduce bitter compounds. Fertilize lightly with nitrogen if growth slows
Bolting/Flowering
2-3 weeksCentral flower stalk elongates with blue or occasionally white flowers. Leaves become tougher and more bitter. Plant may produce secondary shoots from lower nodes
Harvest before bolting for best quality. If bolting occurs, remove flower buds to encourage continued leaf production. Cut whole plant or allow secondary shoots to develop for extended harvest
Harvest/Storage
Ongoing; 4-8 weeks productivePlant produces harvestable leaves and shoots. Outer leaves can be removed repeatedly, or entire plant can be cut. Inner tender shoots are most prized
Harvest in early morning for best crispness. Cut leaves 1-2 inches above soil line to encourage regrowth. Store in refrigerator at 32-40°F for up to 2 weeks. Blanching inner shoots creates milder, tender harvest
Common Pests
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and
Hand-pick, use beer traps, apply copper barriers, encourage beneficial beetles. Use neem oil if severe
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Row covers on young plants, neem oil spray, insecticidal soap. Maintain consistent moisture to reduce stress
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Strong water spray to dislodge, insecticidal soap, neem oil, encourage natural predators like ladybugs
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Yellow sticky traps, neem oil spray, reflective mulch. Ensure good air circulation
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Improve drainage, avoid waterlogging, use well-draining soil, rotate crops. Sterilize tools between plantings
Uses
Sautéed Greens & Spring-like Shoots
CulinaryThe tender inner shoots and blanched leaves are lightly sautéed with garlic and olive oil in Italian cuisine. Young outer leaves can be used in salads raw or cooked like spinach, providing a slightly bitter, complex flavor. [source]
Risotto & Pasta Filling
CulinaryCicoria di Catalogna is traditionally used in Northern Italian dishes, particularly in creamy risottos and as a pasta filling (e.g., in tortellini or ravioli). The slight bitterness balances rich cream and cheese sauces. [source]
Digestive & Liver Health
MedicinalChicory root and leaves have been used in traditional medicine to support digestive function and liver health. The plant contains inulin, a prebiotic fiber that supports gut bacteria and may improve digestive comfort. [source]
Herbal Infusion & Coffee Substitute
HouseholdDried chicory root can be roasted and brewed as a caffeine-free coffee substitute or herbal tea. Historically used in Mediterranean folk medicine as a tonic for digestion and metabolism. [source]
Pollinator Attraction
WildlifeIf allowed to flower, Cicoria di Catalogna produces delicate blue flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Excellent for promoting beneficial insect populations in the garden. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Begin harvesting when plants reach 10-12 inches tall and inner shoots become visible (typically 50-80 days). Cut outer leaves individually to encourage continued production, or harvest the entire plant by cutting 1-2 inches above soil. For the most tender inner shoots, blanch by covering with a bucket or burlap for 5-7 days before final harvest. Harvest in cool morning hours for best crispness. Fall crops often have superior flavor and texture compared to spring crops due to cooler temperatures. Use fresh within 2-3 days for best quality, though can be stored for up to 2 weeks at 32-40°F in high humidity.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Cicoria di Catalogna is named for the Catalonia region in Spain, though it has become a beloved staple in Italian cooking, particularly in Puglia and Calabria regions where it's known as 'catalogna'
- 🌱 The plant's deep root system can reach 12+ inches, making it drought-tolerant once established and allowing it to access deep soil nutrients—this also means deep soil preparation is beneficial
- 🌱 In Italian cuisine, there's a famous Roman dish called 'Puntarelle alla Romana' made from a similar chicory variety, where the tender central shoots are cut into thin strips, chilled, and served with anchovy dressing
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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