Radicchio is a perennial cultivated form of leaf chicory sometimes known as Italian chicory because of its common use in Italian cuisine. It is grown as a leaf vegetable and usually has colorful white-veined red leaves that form a head. Radicchio has a bitter and spicy taste which mellows if it is grilled or roasted. Best sown in early spring for use as baby greens, or in mid-to-late summer for an autumn harvest of mature heads. This is a spring or late summer planted red radicchio that adds color, flavor and crisp texture to salads. Easily grown by sowing in containers or in the open garden, the plants mature quickly and are a welcome addition to salads and baby greens.