This superb purple variety is finer tasting than green varieties. It's as ornamental as it is edible, and is ideal for a variety of situations, and is loved by bees, butterflies and other pollinating insects. Harvest May-June (year 2).

This superb purple variety is, in my view, finer tasting than the green forms and is as ornamental as it is edible. It is the perfect reminder of holiday on the south coast of France.

 

Growing Information

Allow approximately 60cm (2') between plants in rows about 120cm (4') wide. Crops in second year, and continues for 4 to 5 years. Sow February at 10-15°C (50-60°F), or during March outdoors. Harvest May-June (yr 2).

Sowing Information

Sow in a propagator on a windowsill at approx 15 - 20°C (65- 70°F) using a quality compost. Cover seeds with 13mm ( 1?2") sieved compost. Germination 7-10 days. Transfer seedlings into individual 7.5cm (3") pots and grow plants on in a warm light position. Plant out 60cm (24") apart in the row and 120cm (48") between the rows. Alternatively, sow direct in March 13mm ( 1?2") deep 15cm (6") apart in rows 30cm (12") apart. Thin out to final spacing of 60cm (24") in the row and 120cm (48") between the rows. Sowing ➞ Cropping: 50-60 weeks.