Cichorium intybus ‘Leonardo’

‘Leonardo’ is a heading radicchio grown for its crisp, bitter-sweet leaves. It develops a well-filled heart with strong internal red colour, and the red pigmentation becomes more pronounced as temperatures cool. Contrasting pale white ribs divide the rounded red leaves, making mature heads attractive both in the vegetable plot and on the plate.

The head is naturally self-blanching: outer leaves shield the centre from light so the heart remains more tender and less bitter. Leaves can be eaten raw, while roasting or grilling softens their flavour.

Growth form

Compact rounded heading radicchio

Typical garden spacing

About 30cm (1ft) between plants

Cropping period

Grown as an annual leafy vegetable

Allow the full spacing so each plant can close into an even head and air can move around the outer foliage.

Soil

Fertile and moisture-retentive but free draining

Moisture

Evenly moist during active growth

Soil preparation

Incorporate garden compost or well-rotted manure before sowing or planting

Interrupted water supply increases bitterness and encourages bolting. Mulch established plants to conserve moisture and suppress competing weeds.

Light

Full sun, with light summer shade tolerated

Exposure

Preferably sheltered

Season

Develops its best red colour in cooler late-season conditions

Avoid sowing outdoors while the ground is still cold, because chilling can trigger premature flowering. Harvest mature heads before severe frost or protect them with cloches or plastic-free fleece.

Outer leaves begin green and the compact heart develops rich wine-red to burgundy colouring as nights become cooler. Broad white ribs create a strong marbled contrast across each rounded leaf. This temperature-dependent colour change is the cultivar’s defining visual characteristic.

Family

Asteraceae

Species

Cichorium intybus

Native to Great Britain and Ireland

No

Habit

Compact, leafy and heading