Cichorium endivia Facts for Kids

Quick facts for kids Cichorium endivia

Escarole endive
Scientific classification
Genus:	Cichorium
Species:	endivia
Synonyms
Cichorium casnia Wall. Cichorium casnia C.B.Clarke Cichorium crispum Mill. nom. illeg. Cichorium esculentum Salisb.

Cichorium endivia is a type of flowering plant that many people grow for its tasty leaves. You might know it better as endive or escarole. These plants are famous for their slightly bitter leaves, which are often used in salads.

Sometimes, people get C. endivia mixed up with another plant called C. intybus. Both are related, but they are different species.

What is Endive?
History of Endive
Images for kids
See also

What is Endive?

Cichorium endivia is a plant from the Cichorium family. It's known for its crisp, sometimes curly, leaves. People have been growing and eating this plant for a very long time. It's a popular vegetable in many parts of the world.

Different Kinds of Endive

There are two main types of Cichorium endivia that you might see. They are often called endive and escarole.

Curly Endive or Frisée

This type has narrow, curly, and often light green or yellow leaves. It's sometimes called "frisée." Its texture is delicate, and it adds a nice crunch to salads.

Escarole

Escarole has broader, flatter, and less curly leaves. Its leaves are usually a darker green color. It has a slightly less bitter taste than curly endive. Escarole is great in salads, but it can also be cooked in soups or stews.

How Endive Grows

Endive plants grow best in cool weather. Farmers plant their seeds in the spring or late summer. The plants need good soil and enough water to grow strong leaves.

Harvesting Endive

When the plants are ready, farmers carefully pick the leaves. Sometimes, they even "blanch" the inner leaves. This means covering them to keep them from getting too much sunlight. Blanching makes the leaves more tender and less bitter.

Using Endive in Food

Endive and escarole are very healthy vegetables. They are full of vitamins and minerals. People often eat them raw in salads. Their slightly bitter taste goes well with sweet or tangy dressings. You can also cook them. They taste good in stir-fries, soups, or even baked dishes.

History of Endive

People have been growing and eating endive for thousands of years. It was first grown in places like Egypt and Indonesia. The ancient Romans and Greeks also enjoyed this leafy vegetable. Over time, it spread to many other countries. Today, it is a common vegetable in kitchens around the world.