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Italiko Red Dandelion Seeds – Italian Chicory with Red Stems and Bitter Greens for Salads & Cooking

Heirloom - Non-GMO - Reliable Germination

$2.99 USD
Shipping calculated at checkout.
Size: 1 Packet

What Makes Survival Garden Seeds Different - non-GMO heirloom seeds

Italiko Red Dandelion Seeds produce a classic Italian chicory known for its striking appearance and flavorful greens. Despite the name, this variety is not a true dandelion but a refined chicory with vivid burgundy stems and deeply lobed green leaves. Its bright color and balanced bitterness make it a standout choice for both fresh salads and cooked dishes. Harvest young for tender baby greens or allow plants to mature for a more pronounced bitter profile and impressive nutrient density.

Colorful, Nutritious, and Full of Italian Garden Character:

  • Traditional Italian chicory with bold red stems and crisp green leaves
  • Distinctive bitter flavor ideal for salads, sautés, and mixed greens
  • High nutritional value typical of leafy chicories and bitter greens
  • Versatile growth habit suitable for baby leaf or full-size harvests

Why Customers Love Italiko Red Dandelion:

  • Adds eye-catching color and flavor complexity to salads
  • Offers a classic Italian bitter green experience for home cooks
  • Easy to grow and productive through cool-weather seasons
  • Harvest flexibility supports both quick baby greens and mature leaves

How to Grow:
Sow seeds directly in the garden as soon as the soil can be worked in spring, or plant again in late summer for fall harvests. Choose full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Space seedlings to allow airflow as plants mature. For baby greens, harvest when leaves are still small and tender. For mature growth, allow plants to develop fully for stronger flavor and distinct red midribs.

Harvest & Use:
Pick young leaves for mild bitterness and crisp texture. Mature leaves offer a deeper, more traditional chicory flavor ideal for sautéing, braising, or blending into mixed greens. Rinse well and enjoy fresh or lightly cooked.

Net Wt. 250MG

Heirloom Vegetable Seeds

All of our seeds are open-pollinated, non-GMO, heirloom varieties with tested germination rates

Specifications

  • Botanical Name
    Cichorium intybus
  • Planting Zones
    5-9
  • Light
    Full Sun
  • Soil Temp for Germination
    60-70 Degrees F
  • Germination Time
    4-14 Days
  • Planting Depth
    1/4 Inch
  • Plant Size
    12-18 Inches Tall, 12-24 Inch Spread
  • Days to Harvest
    60-70 Days
  • Growing Instructions
    Start dandelion seeds indoors 3-4 weeks ahead of time, or sow directly outdoors once soil has warmed. Keep soil surface below 75 degrees F. and water evenly until germination. Harden seedlings by reducing water and temperature a few days before setting outdoors. Space seedlings 6-8 inches apart.
  • Seed Saving Instructions
    After flowers have dried and developed seed heads, wait for heads to become hard and brown. Remove and allow to dry for several days. Crush seed heads to remove seed. Separate from chaff, label and store in a cool dry place.
  • Seed Count (approximate)
    160 to 200

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Why Choose Survival Garden Seeds

At Survival Garden Seeds, we believe in preparing today for tomorrow’s peace of mind. That’s why we offer only heirloom, non-GMO, and untreated seeds you can trust to nourish your family and support a sustainable lifestyle. As a family-owned American company, we’re committed to providing seeds that grow strong and true—helping you cultivate health, resilience, and beauty in your garden.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are your seeds heirloom and open-pollinated?

Yes. All of our seeds are heirloom, open-pollinated varieties, which means they can produce seeds that grow true to type and are suitable for seed saving.

You can learn more about open-pollinated, heirloom, and non-GMO seeds in our Survival Garden Training blog.

Are your seeds non-GMO?

Yes. All Survival Garden Seeds are 100% non-GMO. Our seeds are open-pollinated heirloom varieties and are never genetically modified.

Are your seeds treated with chemicals?

No. Our seeds are completely untreated and free from chemical coatings, fungicides, or synthetic treatments.

How do I know my seeds are fresh?

Every seed packet includes a packed-for date, and we germination-test each seed lot before packaging to ensure high viability.

What is the shelf life of your seeds?

Most seeds remain viable for 3 to 5 years or longer when stored properly in a cool, dry place away from light and moisture.

In what USDA hardiness zones can I grow your seeds?

Our varieties are selected to grow successfully across USDA Hardiness Zones 3 through 10. Each packet includes variety-specific planting guidance and germination tips.