Beetroot Chioggia Seeds – Candy Stripe Beetroot

Beetroot Chioggia Seeds

Beetroot Chioggia Seeds produce distinctive ball-shaped roots with a mild, sweet flavour and attractive light red skin. This traditional Italian heirloom beetroot, dating from the 1840s, is famous for the beautiful alternating dark pink and white rings revealed when the roots are sliced.

Also known as Candy Stripe Beetroot, Chioggia combines unusual appearance with excellent eating quality. The variety is resistant to bolting, while its colourful roots make a particularly attractive addition to salads and home-cooked dishes.

The seed capsules can contain more than one seed, so seedlings will usually require thinning. Young plants removed during gradual thinning can be enjoyed as tender greens, making excellent use of the crop from an early stage.

Key Features

Traditional Italian heirloom beetroot dating from the 1840s.

Also known as Candy Stripe Beetroot.

Produces round, ball-shaped roots.

Beautiful alternating pink and white rings inside.

Mild and sweet flavour.

Good resistance to bolting.

Thinnings can be enjoyed as young greens.

How to Grow Beetroot Chioggia Seeds

Sow Beetroot Chioggia Seeds directly where the plants are to grow.

Sow approximately 1.25cm (½ inch) deep in a sunny position with neutral, non-acidic soil.

Allow approximately 10–15cm (4–6 inches) between plants as they develop.

Most beetroot "seeds" are actually seed capsules that can contain multiple seeds, so several seedlings may emerge from one sowing point.

Thin seedlings gradually until individual plants have sufficient growing space. The young leaves removed during thinning can be enjoyed as edible greens.

Keep the soil consistently moist to encourage healthy, even root development.

Beetroot Growing Tips

Direct sow where plants are to mature.

Grow in full sun.

Choose neutral, non-acidic soil.

Thin seedlings gradually to individual plants.

Use tender thinnings as edible greens.

Keep soil consistently moist during root development.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Chioggia Beetroot called Candy Stripe Beetroot?
When sliced open, the roots reveal distinctive alternating dark pink and white rings, creating a candy-striped appearance.

Is Chioggia an heirloom variety?
Yes, Chioggia Beetroot is an Italian heirloom dating from the 1840s.

What does Chioggia Beetroot taste like?
The ball-shaped roots have a mild, sweet flavour.

Why do several seedlings sometimes appear from one Beetroot seed?
Most beetroot "seeds" are actually capsules containing multiple seeds, so thinning to individual plants is often necessary.

Can Beetroot thinnings be eaten?
Yes, when seedlings are gradually thinned, the young leaves can be enjoyed as greens.

Perfect For

Kitchen gardens

Allotments

Raised beds

Heritage vegetables

Colourful salads

Edible gardens

Unusual vegetables

Home cooking