Cultivated endive (Cichorium endivia)

Cultivated endive

Also known as: Broadleaved endive

The cultivated endive is a year or two year long plant. In flowering condition it reaches stature heights of 30 to 70 cm (rarely up to 1.4 m ). It does not form closed heads of lettuce but rosettes from relatively thick leaves. The peduncle is club-thickened at the top. The heads consist only of tongue blossoms. Flowering is from summer to fall.

Scientific classification

Species

Cultivated endive (Cichorium endivia)

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

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Perennial, Annual, Biennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

Mid summer, Late summer, Fall, Early winter

Harvest Time

Brown, Copper, Cream, Tan

Fruit Color

Blue, Purple

Flower Color

Green, Brown

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Semi-evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Cultivated endive

Distribution of Cultivated endive

Distribution Map

Cultivated endive is a plant primarily native to a region in Central Asia. It has been extensively introduced to various continents, including Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, and the Americas, where it is cultivated. Its distribution encompasses Mediterranean and temperate regions, favoring climates suitable for its growth.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Rocks and sand by the sea

Quickly Identify Cultivated endive

Curly, fringed leaves in one variety, smooth and broad leaves in the other.

Pale blue flowers with radial ligule arrangement, blooming in morning hours.

Fruit is obovoid to cylindrical with ribbing, smooth exterior in brown to gray tones.

Deeply dissected, oblanceolate leaves with cuneate base and variable margins.

Green to reddish-brown stem, fuzzy near base, reaching up to 3 feet (90 cm).

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Care Guide for Cultivated endive

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Cultivated endive is native to the Mediterranean and prefers moderately moist soil, requiring consistent weekly watering to avoid root saturation. It has a balanced drought tolerance and efficient water uptake during cooler temperatures, making outdoor cultivation ideal for optimal growth.

Fertilize: To enhance cultivated endive's growth, use a high nitrogen fertilizer and a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during active growth. Water cultivated endive before fertilizing, and apply in the morning. Avoid over-fertilization to maintain flavor and follow product instructions for best results.

Pruning: Cultivated endive has curly or broad leaves and needs careful pruning for healthy growth. Prune in early to late spring to maintain shape and encourage new leaves. Trim damaged leaves for better air circulation. Regular thinning improves vigor, leading to a more productive harvest.

Propagation: Cultivated endive thrives when sown in a fine, well-drained seedbed with rich soil, as light is necessary for germination. Maintain moist soil carefully while thinning seedlings for space. Transplant gently to prevent root damage, and protect young plants from extreme sun and wind.

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