Spigarello
Estimated Inventory, bunch : 0
Description/Taste
Spigarello broccoli are wavy edible greens with thin fibrous stems. At peak maturity the greens will produce edible flowers but never large floret heads like common broccoli. The flavor of Spigarello is mild, slightly grassy and sweet and void of the bitterness often associated with field greens. Its texture is tender, succulent and crunchy.
Seasons/Availability
Spigarello broccoli is available year-round with a peak season from mid-winter to spring.
Current Facts
Spigarello broccoli is an heirloom variety considered to be the parent of broccoli rabe. The name Spigarello is actually a purposed American corruption of the plant's given name, Spigariello. Its real name is Cima di Rapa, which translates to "turnip top" but is also loosely translated to broccoli rabe. Names of plants vary depending on local usage, so it is not uncommon for Spigariello to also become known as Cima di Rapa or simply Spigarello. The American name Spigarello allowed the broccoli green variety's true origins to remain nearly undiscovered, a virtue that farmers enjoy, their seeds often untraceable, allowing for near growing exclusivity. There are dozens of Spigarello varieties, including Quarantina, Sessantina and Novantina. Some varieties are smooth-leaved, others curled.
