The Best 20 Varieties of Endive to Grow: Tips, Facts, and Information

Endive (Cichorium endivia) is a leafy green vegetable known for its slightly bitter flavor and crisp texture. It is often used in salads, soups, and as a garnish. Endive belongs to the chicory family and is categorized into two main types: curly endive and Belgian endive. This cool-season crop thrives in cooler weather, making it a great addition to fall and spring gardens. Here’s a look at the best 20 varieties of endive to grow, along with helpful tips and interesting facts about each.

1. Curly Endive (Frisée)

Facts: This variety features frilly, ruffled leaves and a slightly bitter flavor, popular in salads.
Tips: Harvest before the plant flowers for the best taste; prefers full sun.

2. Belgian Endive

Facts: Known for its tightly packed, pale yellow leaves, this variety is often blanched for a milder flavor.
Tips: Requires careful growing conditions; best harvested when heads are firm.

3. Escarole

Facts: A broad-leaved variety with a less bitter flavor than curly endive; excellent for soups and salads.
Tips: Thrives in cooler temperatures; harvest when leaves are tender.

4. Sugarloaf Endive

Facts: This variety has a conical shape and sweet flavor, ideal for fresh salads.
Tips: Best harvested when the heads are well-formed; prefers well-drained soil.

5. Batavian Endive

Facts: Known for its broad, thick leaves and slightly sweet flavor; often used in cooking.
Tips: Grows well in warm climates; harvest when leaves are young.

6. Curly Endive ‘Dandelion’

Facts: This variety has deep green, serrated leaves with a bitter flavor reminiscent of dandelion greens.
Tips: Great for salads; prefers full sun and regular watering.

7. Endive ‘Palla Rossa’

Facts: A red-leaved variety with a unique flavor; adds color and taste to salads.
Tips: Best harvested young for the best flavor; thrives in well-drained soil.

8. Endive ‘Winter’

Facts: A hardy variety that can withstand frost, making it perfect for winter harvests.
Tips: Grows well in colder climates; harvest when leaves are tender.

9. Endive ‘Salad Bowl’

Facts: Known for its loose-leaf structure and mild flavor; great for salads and sandwiches.
Tips: Ideal for succession planting; prefers well-drained soil.

10. Endive ‘Grumolo’

Facts: An Italian variety with a unique flavor profile; often used in traditional dishes.
Tips: Best harvested when the heads are compact; thrives in full sun.

11. Endive ‘Bionda Riccia’

Facts: This variety has light green, curly leaves and a slightly bitter flavor.
Tips: Harvest when leaves are young for optimal taste; ideal for salads.

12. Endive ‘Green Curly’

Facts: A decorative variety with bright green, frilly leaves; perfect for garnishing dishes.
Tips: Grows well in well-drained soil; great for fresh salads.

13. Endive ‘Romaine’

Facts: A hybrid variety with a romaine-like appearance and a sweet flavor; good for salads.
Tips: Best harvested when young; requires consistent moisture.

14. Endive ‘Blondine’

Facts: Known for its pale leaves and mild flavor, this variety is great for cooking.
Tips: Thrives in cooler temperatures; ideal for soups and stews.

15. Endive ‘Dwarf’

Facts: A compact variety perfect for small gardens or container growing.
Tips: Regular watering promotes healthy growth; great for urban gardening.

16. Endive ‘Winter Bionda’

Facts: A winter variety known for its crisp texture and sweet flavor.
Tips: Best harvested when leaves are tender; prefers cool, moist conditions.

17. Endive ‘Rossa di Treviso’

Facts: An Italian variety with a striking red color and a rich flavor; excellent for salads.
Tips: Grows well in sunny spots; best harvested when heads are firm.

18. Endive ‘Crispa’

Facts: This variety features crisp leaves and a mildly bitter flavor; great for salads.
Tips: Harvest regularly to encourage new growth; prefers full sun.

19. Endive ‘Cicoria di Catalogna’

Facts: A traditional Italian variety known for its robust flavor and long leaves.
Tips: Ideal for cooking; grows well in various soil types.

20. Endive ‘Gentile’

Facts: Known for its tender leaves and sweet flavor, this variety is often used in fine dining.
Tips: Best harvested before flowering for optimal taste; prefers well-drained soil.

Common Questions About Growing Endive

Q: When is the best time to plant endive?
A: Endive can be planted in early spring or late summer for a fall harvest, as it prefers cooler temperatures.

Q: How much sunlight does endive need?
A: Endive thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade, especially in warmer climates.

Q: How do I care for endive plants?
A: Keep the soil consistently moist and well-drained. Regularly check for pests and diseases.

Q: Can I grow endive in containers?
A: Yes, endive can be successfully grown in containers. Use a pot that is at least 8-10 inches deep for adequate root space.

Q: What pests should I watch for when growing endive?
A: Common pests include aphids, slugs, and caterpillars. Regular monitoring and using organic pest control methods can help manage these issues.