CRAUPADINE BEET SEEDS

Beta vulgaris

ORGANIC

The Craupadine beet is an old French heirloom that has long tapered red roots with thick bark-like skin. The tops are somewhat variable in color and quality, but in the cool of autumn and early winter they are a beautiful glossy “mulberry”, as remarked in gardening literature of the 17th century. Likely descended from the ancient strain of “black" chard cultivated in Greece in the 4th century BC.

Sow these seeds into loose rich soils in spring or in late summer where autumn lingers and where winters are mild. The latter will produce the prettiest tops and sweetest beets. These roots are best roasted, after which the skin is easily removed. This is not a beet suitable for fresh use, but one that is extraordinarily delicious and tender when cooked slowly and thoroughly.

Very hardy, though it will not overwinter for us. Keeps better than most beets thanks to the thick skin. Ready to harvest in about 75 days, though they will keep in the ground for much longer. Unique, historic, and recommended.

Packet contains at least 100 seeds.