Stella Rosa Radicchio

Stella Rosa Radicchio Seeds (Heirloom)

Non-GMO | Open-Pollinated | The "Rose of the Garden"

The Culinary Edge 💗

Stop settling for the tight, bitter purple balls of grocery store radicchio. Stella Rosa (also known as the Pink Radicchio or La Rosa del Veneto) is the undisputed crown jewel of the chicory world. It doesn't just look like a vegetable; it looks like a blooming rose. Prized by Michelin-starred chefs for its breathtaking pastel pink hues and delicate, ruffled leaves, this variety provides a sophisticated "sweet-bitter" balance that is far more approachable and nuanced than traditional red varieties.

25+ Seeds per Packet

At A Glance:

✨ Flavor Profile

• The Gentle Chicory: Offers the classic radicchio "snap" but with a significantly softer bitter profile, making it a favorite for those who usually find chicories too aggressive.

• Cold-Induced Sweetness: As temperatures drop, the plant converts starches to sugars, resulting in a crisp, refreshing, and complex flavor.

🍴 Culinary Versatility

• The "Showstopper" Salad: The leaves are so stunning they require little more than a light vinaigrette. Pair with citrus, toasted hazelnuts, or a sharp gorgonzola to let the pink color pop.

• Edible Plating: Use the sturdy, rose-like leaves as individual "cups" for tartare, high-end seafood salads, or grain-based appetizers.

• The Wilted Finish: While best raw for color, a very brief flash-sear allows the edges to caramelize while maintaining the core's delicate crunch.

🌱 Growing Notes

• The Magic of the Chill: To achieve that iconic pink color, Stella Rosa requires the cool nights of a Montreal autumn. In Quebec, sow these in mid-summer to ensure they mature as the temperatures begin to dip.

• Blanching Secret: While some modern strains color up naturally, light exclusion (tying the leaves or covering) in the final weeks can further enhance the vibrant pastel "rose" effect.

• Frost Hardiness: This is a true cold-weather specialist. It can withstand light frosts, which only serve to deepen the color and improve the flavor profile.