How to Grow Palla Rossa Tardiva
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Palla Rossa Tardiva
Cichorium intybus var. foliosum
vegetablePalla Rossa Tardiva is a late-season Italian radicchio variety characterized by deep crimson-red leaves with white veining and a compact, round head. This heirloom chicory is prized for its slightly bitter, complex flavor and impressive color, making it both a culinary and ornamental garden feature. It requires cool weather to develop its signature deep coloring.
When should you plant Palla Rossa Tardiva in your zone?
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Example Palla Rossa Tardiva timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Palla Rossa Tardiva
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 Palla Rossa Tardiva
Around Jul 6≈ 80 days after planting
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 5-9, performs best in cool-season climates
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Get my Palla Rossa Tardiva timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
2-3 weeksSmall rosette of tender green leaves, 2-4 leaves visible
Keep soil consistently moist, provide bright indirect light indoors. Thin seedlings to prevent crowding.
Vegetative Growth
3-4 weeksExpanding rosette with 8-12 leaves, plant reaches 6-8 inches tall
Ensure full sun exposure, maintain consistent watering, fertilize every 2-3 weeks with balanced fertilizer
Head Formation
3-4 weeksLeaves begin clustering inward, forming a loose head, leaves remain predominantly green
Critical phase—maintain even moisture and consistent temperatures. Cool nights (50-60°F) trigger red coloration initiation.
Color Development & Maturity
2-3 weeksHead tightens and deepens in color from green to deep crimson-red with white veining, head becomes firm
Cool fall weather (below 60°F at night) intensifies red pigmentation. Reduce nitrogen fertilizer. Light frost actually improves flavor and color.
Harvest Ready
Variable; can be harvested over weeks as heads matureFully formed, compact head with rich deep crimson coloring and firm texture when squeezed gently
Harvest when heads are fully colored and feel firm. Light frost does not damage this hardy variety.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with strong water stream; use neem oil or insecticidal soap; introduce ladybugs
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Use row covers on young plants; apply neem oil or pyrethrin; dust with diatomaceous earth
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Hand-pick at dawn/dusk; copper tape barriers; beer traps; encourage predatory beetles
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Inspect undersides of leaves regularly; remove by hand; use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) if needed
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Increase humidity with misting; spray with water; use miticide-containing insecticidal soap in severe cases
Uses
Fresh salads and crudités
CulinaryThe tender inner leaves are slightly bitter with a pleasant chicory flavor, perfect for mixed green salads, bitter leaf collections, and raw vegetable platters. The striking red and white appearance makes it visually stunning as a salad component. [source]
Grilled and roasted dishes
CulinarySlice heads in half lengthwise and grill or roast with olive oil, garlic, and balsamic vinegar. Heat mellows the bitterness while the outer leaves caramelize, creating a complex, savory side dish. [source]
Digestive and liver support
MedicinalLike other chicories, Palla Rossa contains inulin and bitter compounds that support digestive function and may promote healthy liver function. Traditionally used in herbal medicine for bile production. [source]
Natural food coloring and garnish
HouseholdThe deep red pigmentation (anthocyanins) can be used to create natural food dyes or as a striking garnish for plated dishes in restaurant and gourmet cooking. [source]
Ornamental garden accent
CraftWith its jewel-toned crimson coloring and geometric rosette form, Palla Rossa Tardiva is prized by ornamental vegetable gardeners and can be grown purely for its aesthetic beauty in decorative potagers. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest when heads are fully formed and firm (late autumn/early winter). Cut entire head at soil level with a sharp knife. Can be harvested after light frosts—cold actually improves flavor and intensifies red color. Store in cool cellar (32-40°F) with high humidity for 1-2 months.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Palla Rossa means 'red ball' in Italian, referencing the round, compact head shape and deep crimson color that develops as temperatures drop.
- 🌱 The red pigmentation is caused by anthocyanins—the same antioxidant compounds found in blueberries and red wine—which intensify as the plant experiences cool nights and even light frost.
- 🌱 This heirloom variety originates from the Veneto region of Italy and has been cultivated since the 15th century, making it one of the most historic radicchio varieties still in cultivation.
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