Climate matters. This page is a practical baseline. Confirm cultivar, local frost/heat conditions, mature size and regional restrictions before planting.
Escarole — Growing reference
| Scientific name | Cichorium endivia var. latifolium |
|---|---|
| Seed germination (days) | 5–9 |
| Soil temperature for germination (°C) | 10–23.9 |
| First harvest or flowering (days) | 85–100 |
| Measured from | Seed |
| Plant spacing (cm) | 30.5–40.6 |
| Mature height (cm) | 25.4–35.6 |
| Mature spread (cm) | 30.5–40.6 |
| USDA hardiness zones | 4–9 |
| Light | Full sun |
| Water | Moderate |
| Sowing method | Direct sow |
Growing directions
Sow seed 1/4 in deep in well-amended soil; escarole forms broad, flat rosettes with broad wavy leaves that are less bitter than curly endive. Blanch by gathering outer leaves and tying them over the center for 10–14 days before harvest to produce a creamy, tender heart. Harvest the full rosette by cutting at the soil line when heads are 12–14 in across. Escarole holds well in the garden through light frosts, which improve its mellow, slightly bitter flavor.
Source and local conditions
Typical planning ranges from OpenPlantDB (CC0). Cultivar, climate, season and growing method can change these values. Confirm the seed label and local guidance before planting.
Source & verification
OpenPlantDB · CC0