Editing Escarole (section)

== Characteristics ==

* '''Physical Characteristics''': ''Cichorium endivia'' plants can grow between 10 inches and 2 feet tall, with a spread of about the same width. They have two main types of leaves: curly endive leaves are narrow and fringed, while escarole leaves are broad and flat<ref>https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/cichorium-endivia</ref>. Both types form a loose head with a creamy yellow center<ref>https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/cichorium-endivia</ref>.
* '''Growing Conditions''': These plants thrive in full sun to partial shade and require well-drained soil with a pH between 5.5 and 8.3<ref>https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/cichorium-endivia</ref>. They are cool-season crops, performing best at temperatures around 60-65°F (15-18°C)<ref>https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/cichorium-endivia</ref>. Escarole is more tolerant of heat and cold than lettuce<ref>http://gardening.cornell.edu/homegardening/scene79ad.html</ref>.
* '''Lifecycle''': ''Cichorium endivia'' is typically grown as an annual or biennial. It germinates quickly, with seeds emerging in 5 to 7 days at optimal temperatures of around 75°F (24°C)<ref>http://gardening.cornell.edu/homegardening/scene79ad.html</ref>. The growth period from sowing to harvest is approximately 70-100 days<ref>https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/cichorium-endivia</ref>.

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