Mantovana Chicory (Cichorium intybus)

Mantovana Chicory (Cichorium intybus L.): also known as Capotta Chicory, this traditional variety is amongst the most tolerant to low temperatures.  It has a distinctive shape and arrangement of leaves that create a large, compact, oval hood that looks like a rose. It can be harvested in two ways, the whole head or just the leaves that are particularly soft and its taste very delicate.