Endive / Escarole
History and Facts: Endive / escarole is native to the East Indies. The plant was brought to America by Colonists. Escarole is another name for a type of endive with broad leaves and a well-balanced heart. The word "endive" is reserved to designate plants with narrow, finely divided curly leaves. Florida escarole and endive are produced mainly in two areas of muck soils -- the Central area northeast of Lake Apopka and the Everglades area south of Lake Okeechobee.
Nutritional Value:
Endive is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and iron.
Storage:
Endive/escarole is not held for long periods of time. For brief storage, a temperature of 32 degrees fahrenheit with a relative humidity between 90 and 95 percent is recommended.
Availability:
October through July
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