Dandelion Seeds, Italiko Rosso
Italiko Rosso Dandelion on cutting board.
Italiko Rosso Dandelion on cutting board along with bowl and coins for sizing.
Italiko Rosso bunches on light background.
Dandelion Seeds, Italiko Rosso
Italiko Rosso Dandelion on cutting board.
Italiko Rosso Dandelion on cutting board along with bowl and coins for sizing.
Italiko Rosso bunches on light background.

Dandelion Seeds,
Italiko Rosso

4.325 ReviewsSKU: #RC106Min. seed count: 250
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Description

(Cichorium intybus). Beautiful, bright red stems and deep green leaves make this variety a winner! Baby leaves add great tangy flavor to salads, or are good as a cooked green. We offer true Italian seeds for this delicious heirloom, which is not a true dandelion, but rather a member of the chicory family.

Growing Tips:Italiko Rosso dandelion is adaptable to most areas but grows best in a location that receives morning sun and part to full shade in the afternoon. Cooler temperatures help reduce the bitterness of its leaves. Consistent moisture is important but avoid overwatering. Regular thinning helps healthy plant development​.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Cichorium intybus
Life Cycle
Perennial
Sun Requirement
4–6 hr.
Days to Germinate
5–10
Days to Maturity
50
Planting Depth
⅛ in.
Plant Spacing
8–12 in.
Ideal Temperature
45–75°F
Frost Hardy
Yes

When to Grow

Italiko Rosso dandelion is a cold-hardy plant. Sow seeds outdoors as soon as the soil can be worked, or start them indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost. Check local frost dates to determine the best time to plant.

How to Sow and Plant

Direct sow seeds by lightly pressing them into the soil surface, as they require light to germinate. Cover with a thin layer of starting mix. The soil temperature is between 60-70 F. Space seeds 8-12 inches apart with rows about 12 inches apart. Germination typically occurs within 5-10 days​.

How to Grow

Keep the soil evenly moist, especially in warmer climates. Harvest young leaves for a milder flavor or let the plants mature for stronger, tangy greens. If growing in hot weather, partial shade can help reduce bitterness. Italiko Rosso is well-suited for container gardening if the pot has sufficient depth and good drainage​.

How to Save Seeds

  • Choose at least 10 robust plants to save seeds from.
  • Wait for the plants to flower and the seeds to ripen and turn brown. You can harvest the whole plant or individual seed heads when most of the seeds are ripe.
  • Hang upside down or spread on brown paper bags to let the plants dry for a couple of weeks.
  • Shake off the ripe seeds.
  • Remove dust, twigs, and stems.
  • Gently blow on the seeds over a plate or winnowing basket to remove any remaining debris.
  • Put the dry seeds in a waterproof bag and label it. Store the seeds in the freezer for a few days to kill any parasite larvae.
  • Seeds will be viable for five years (or more if stored in the freezer for a while).

FAQ

Can I grow Italiko Rosso dandelion in containers?

Yes, choose a pot that is at least 6 inches deep, with good drainage and regular watering.

How do I reduce the bitterness of Italiko Rosso leaves?

Grow in cooler temperatures, provide partial shade, and harvest young leaves​.

How long does it take for Italiko Rosso dandelion to mature?

It typically matures in about 50 days, depending on growing conditions​.

Customer reviews

4.3 / 5 25 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Tough and perennial: Survives hard freezes and summer heat, regrowing from the root.

  • Cut and come again: Leaves regrow after each harvest; a short row feeds a family.

  • Boldly bitter greens: Best sauteed with garlic and olive oil, or used sparingly in salads.

  • Sun or part shade: Does well in pots and part shade, and shrugs off neglect.

  • Heads up: A chicory, not a true dandelion; slow to start and quite bitter.

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