Italian Seeds Pronto will be closed between February 8th - 19th. Any orders placed online or via email will be dispatched Friday 20th February

Italian tomatoes are globally known for flavour.Many of the Franchi varieties have been grown by the same family in their home region for generations from original seed.Each Italian tomato has its own reason for being- making passata (puree) baking,roasting,drying,sauces and for slicing.

Will they grow here in New Zealand?

Terroir is a very simple but powerful concept,whereby the climate,soil and plant interact to produce an expression of that interaction. Great examples of terroir expression can be found in cheese,coffee and wine.The Franchi Beeline and Seedyworks tomato seed on offer are defined by variety and regional origins so select a variety best suited to your useage and province in New Zealand.

There are two types of tomato. Indeterminate (cordon) and determinate(bush)Indeterminate will need to have their 45˚side shoots removed and the top shoot too,while bush (determinate) variety doesn't.There are more cordon varieties than bush and the bush do tend to be smaller varieties,although in gardening there always is an exception.

Whilst many varieties are available to us we try and choose for suitabilty to the varying terroir of New Zealand. Franchi Sementi are genuine Italian heirloom All packets have 100's of seeds. All are untreated and GE free. All have great depth of flavour and texture.

The Beeline and Seedyworks on offer are also ancient Italian seed. Hand -sorted and packed from a reliable local producer.

Franchi Italian Tomatoes grown in Aotearoa

Tomato ( Pomodoro) Beeline Tuscan Red

CURRENTLY SOLD OUT Beeline Tuscan Red Tomato is a large beefsteak variety from regional Florence within Tuscany. Vigorous and productive with really sweet tasting thick semi-flat scalloped fruit that grows consistently well throughout all NZ provinces. 40 seeds

Tomato (Pomodoro) Pantano Romanesco DBO106/64

We are so lucky to have this tomato back here in Aotearoa NZ . A much sought-after Roman heirloom.This large Tuscan ribbed beefsteak tomato grows quite tall. Pantano Romanesco is vigorous producer of large fruits,few seeds and tasty thick flesh. Pick when shoulder is green-tinged. Grows well in all provinces of NZ Good for raw salads. One of the best flavoured slicing tomatoes available. This is also the tomato most often served as insalata caprese in Rome . #genuine Italian heirloom 1.5g Indeterminate 1.5g packet

Pomodoro Pantano DBO 106/64
NZD $8.30

Seasonal guide

Seedyworks (Pomodoro ) Tomato Red cluster of Napoli

Small round tomato with very few seeds. Large sprays of fruit set in clusters. Require stake support. Can be left inside i.e.shed over winter to dry the fruit. Indeterminate.Around 40 seeds

Seedyworks( Pomodoro )Tomato Red Cluster of Napoli
NZD $4.00

Tomato (Pomodoro) Seedyworks Heart of Genoa

Large heart-shaped deep pink tomato. Sweet. Low on acid and light on seeds. Best picked when not too ripe for ultimate flavour. Requires stake support. Indeterminate. Around 40 seeds

Tomato ( Pomodoro) Seedyworks heart of Genoa
NZD $4.00

LIGHT REFRESHING AND CLEANSING

Misticanza is the Italian name for a variety of different leaves and many are suitable for year-round planting and harvesting like Quattro Stagioni,Di Lattughe and Di Radicchi.Spring and Autumn is good for Valeriana Verte De Cambrai,( Lambs lettuce)Arugula (rocket) Romana Bionda degli Ortoloni (Cos) La Resistente sel Franchi Summer tends to like Lingua Di Canarino ( green oak leaf) Maravilla de Verano Canasta and Romana Bionda Lentissima A Montare.

Pick a cooler position and water well and they will be green and tender. When picked young although softer the flavour is well defined.Avoid overwhelming first picked tender leaves with astringent vinegar dressings instead opt for soft fresh olive oil and season with salt and pepper

Many listed below are also suitable for year-round growing

Lettuce (lattuga)Romana Bionda Lentissima a Montare DBO84/13

A wonderful upright romaine lettuce(baby cos) that is resistant to high temps making it slow to bolt.The lettuce has light green ribbed soft tasty leaves. This variety is often used in a classic Caesar salad. It can take up to 2 weeks to germinate but worth the patience! 7g packet (lots of seeds)

Lattuga Romana Bionda Lentissima a Montare DBO 84/13
NZD $8.00

Lettuce ( Lattuga) Degli Ortolani DBO84/4

Romaine lettuce (also referred to as Cos) with tall large tight head and dark green crunchy leaves packed into a cylindrical shape. Grow from seedlings or direct 20cm apart. This is the lettuce for Caesar salads. Does best in winter and spring. Around 65 days to picking. 7g approx. 4000 seeds.

Lattuga Romana DBO84/4
NZD $8.00

Lettuce Misticanza Di Lattughe DBO93/1

14 lettuce,including,lettuces 4 seasons,romaine,verona, rosso trento. A mix of varieties for an evenly balanced salad mix. Broadcast Seed about 20cm apart on a smooth well-prepared bed and cover with soil. Ready in around 35 days. New plantings every few weeks for continuous harvest. A cut and come again mixture. 12g approx 7000 seeds.

Misticanza Lattughe DBO93/1
NZD $8.00

Lettuce ( Lattuga) La Resistente Sel. "Franchi" DBOS 79/18

Selezione Speciale A very resilient lettuce developed by Franchi. It has soft vivid green leaves; a very flavoursome crisp lettuce which is slow to bolt. 6g approx 3000 seeds

Selezione Speciale La Resistente
NZD $8.30

Lettuce ( Lattuga) Lingua di Canarino DBO78/19

“Canarys tongue” An oak leafed green-headed variety. Oak leaf has a dense, dark green head of tender crisp serrated leaves. Suitable for spring, summer and autumn planting. Grows really well in cooler provinces of NZ. 10 g approx 4500 seeds.

Lattuga Lingua di Canarino DBO 78/19DBO78/19
NZD $8.00

Lettuce (Lattuga )Passion Brune DBO 79/31

Introduced in 1855 Passion Brune winter butterhead lettuce is a vigourous plant that has a good firm head and crisp green blistered leaves tinged in burgundy. Cold hardy and can be harvested until late autumn. We have noticed this lettuce has slow germination but worth hanging in for a great lettuce. 7g packet

Lattuga Passion Brune 79/31
NZD $8.00

Misticanza (mixture) Quattro Stagioni DBO 93/4

(Four Seasons) A mixture of 14 of Italy's finest including,radicchio,endive, green chicory romaine, 4 seasons and verona lettuce leaves. Adds colour,flavour and texture for great salads. Cut and come again salad mixture so stagger sowing for continuous harvest. Note the seed count! 12g approx 7000 seeds

Misticanza Quattro Stagioni i DBO93/4
NZD $8.00

Radish (Ravanello) Gaudry 2 DBO 112/3

Small globe shaped peppery salad radish with an attractive red neck and white base. An early variety that is reliable and easy to grow. Direct sow most of the year. 15g packet

Ravanello gaudry 2
NZD $8.00

Rocket (Rucola) Coltivata DBO115/1

A milder variety than wild rocket (selvatica) but with the same characteristic flavours of nutty, pepper and spice which is associated with this leaf. Rocket can bolt easily so avoid planting in the high heat of summer. Make frequent plantings every few weeks for continuous supply. Around 40 days. Can be grown in pots. 15g packet

Rucola DBO115/1
NZD $8.00

Rocket (Rucola) Coltivita Sel.Ortolani DBOS115/3

'Speciale Selezione ' Very high quality. Early rustic plant with dark green lightly serrated leaves and a very robust peppery flavour. A favorite rocket of many market growers in Italy because of its consistent taste,colour and growth habit. Sow direct when soils are warm or sow undercover and plant out early spring. around 40 days 15 g approx 7000 seeds

Rucola sel. Ortolani DBOS115/3
NZD $8.30

Wild Rocket(Rucola Selvatica) DBO115/5

A stronger and more intense spicy, peppery flavour than cultivated rocket. Wild rocket is a very robust plant with deeply lobed leaves with sometimes a burgundy tinge. Harvest at any stage but best when small. If you leave some plants in the ground the seed will be scattered and should come back year after year.Good to use in pasta dishes as well as salads. 5g approx 7000 seeds

Wild Rocket (Rucola Selvatica) DBO115/5
NZD $8.00

Rocket (Rucola) Selvatica a Foglia D'Ulivo DBOS115/4

Selezione Speciale. A superior olive-shaped leaf giving its name and characteristic look. Medium sized soft leaf with intense spicy flavour. This rucola selvatica ( wild rocket) smell great and its peppery invigorating leaf can be mixed into any salads. Best grown in autumn and spring to avoid going to seed. Around 50 days 4g packet

Rucola Selvatica A Foglia D'Ulivo DBOS 115/4
NZD $8.30

Radicchio ( Cicoria) has been around for centuries. Pliny, the elder makes mention of the red-lined lettuce of the Veneto region noting that not only was it tasty the leaves could also cure insomnia and purify the blood.

The modern radicchio with its rich red and white leaves was developed in the mid 1800's.Today, radicchio is the generic name of a few types of leaf chicory. There are many kinds but the most famous and important are Rosso di Treviso, Variegata Di Castelfranco.These have IGP status

Both red and green cicoria thrive in cooler temperatures and can tolerate frost.Mostly red and green cicoria is used torn and raw; when cooked the bitterness is less pronounced and changes to an autumnal red-brown and develops the trademark nutty flavour

Heading chicory and radicchio initially grow a mass of loose leaves that in time will head up.

Indive (indiva) Scarola Bionda A Cuore Pieno DBO121/2

One of the best endives ( escarole) for eating in salads as it has a large blonde heart which makes the leaves more tender. We have been asked by a number of our NZ Franchi customers to import this due to its flavour and reputation. 12gram pkt.

Indiva Scarola Bionda A Cuore Pieno DBO 121/2
NZD $8.00

Chicory Da Taglio Bionda a Foglie Larghe DBO40/25

Light green cutting Chicory with a mild taste which is perfect for making a balanced green salad. Broadcast sow in beds with a spacing of around 30cm after risk of frost. Cover lightly. Cut at about 10cm and succession sow for continuous supply. 12g approx 6000 seeds. If you find your Chicory is too bitter just soak it in cold salty water for 30 minutes

Cicoria Da Taglio Foglie Larghe DBO40/25
NZD $8.00

Cicoria Catalogna Pugliese DBO 40/9

A very rare and tasty cicoria from Puglia. Upright rustic plant with long serrated leaves and white ribs. Direct sow or transplant in all but the deepest winter months. This juicy vegetable is primarily grown for salad but can also be cooked. Try it gently boiled in salted water served on top of broad bean puree sprinkled with bread cubes fried in olive oil and garlic. 12g

Cicoria CatalognaPugliese DBO40/9
NZD $8.00

Cicoria Catalogna Punterelle Brindisina DBO 40/46

A 'punterelle' variety of cicoria which is grown for its stems and buds. It is also sweeter and more delicate than other cicoria. Sow direct or as transpants late summer and spring spacing 15cm apart. The central stem is thicker than other puntarelle. Very crunchy and tasty. Slice inner-core thinly and immerse in cold water until they curl up. Drizzle with lemon anchovy dressing. 12grams

Cic Cat Punt Brindisina DBO40/46
NZD $8.00

Cicoria Variegata Di Castelfranco DBO40/5

This white radicchio looks like a traditional head of lettuce but has deep syrah tinted speckled bitter leaves.It is a cross between radicchio and a round-headed endive. Green -white radicchio have the same growing season as winter lettuce. Sow 1cm deep from late summer. This is a highly regarded radicchio in Europe, 12gram packet

Cicoria Castelfranco DBO40/5
NZD $8.00

Cicoria Variegata Esposizione Di Castefranco DBOS 40/20

Selezione Speciale. A very high quality venetian variety with a round crunchy closed head. very hardy plant. White radicchio have the same growing season as winter lettuce. Sow 1cm deep from early autumn. 5g packet

DBOS 40/20 Speciale Castelfranco
NZD $8.30

Indivia Riccia Romanesca Da Taglio DBO 75/10

A Roman cutting endive with thin,serrated dark upright leaves that grow in small bunches. This is a very easy variety to grow and has a long sowing season.Best in spring and autumn but can be grown year-round in the cooler provinces of New Zealand. Commonly used in salads but do try in a soup made with tomatoes, celery and pancetta. 12g

Endive Roman da TaglioDBO75/10
NZD $8.00

Indivia Scarola Cornetto di Bordeaux DBO121/5

“Cone from Bordeaux” is a large upright escarole endive with white ribs and green leaves. Easy to grow. Best for autumn if growing full sized heads. Plant direct at 1cm. Try in a winter salad with fennel,chicory, persimmons and apple,12g approx 5000 seeds.

Indivia Cornetto di Bordeaux DBO 121/5 121/5
NZD $8.00

Radicchio Rossa Di Treviso (Tardiva) DBOS 40/60

"Selezione Speciale" This is the latest of the red Treviso-type radicchios.The tardiva(late harvest) has much more pronounced ribs and splayed leaves.It has more depth of flavour and stronger bitter accents than the earlier (precoce) variety.It easily resists frosts and naturally can be harvested quite late in the season. Please note this variety can take longer than most to germinate. Sow 1cm late summer to autumn and harvest through winter. Try it grilled with melted Taleggio or a risotto, the bitterness of the radicchio works with the creamy texture of a well made risotto. 4 gram packet

Radicchio TrevTardiva DBOS40/60
NZD $8.30

Radicchio Rossa di Treviso DBO40/4

Highly prized and flavoursome Radicchio rossa di Treviso is one of Italy's culinary treasures; where it is only grown near Treviso. Has a very pleasant bitterness, upright red and white striped leaves. Needs cold temperature to turn it red. Remove outer leaves before eating. Use hearts raw in salads, sprinkle olive oil and grill, or in a risotto with Italian sausage and parmesan( delicious!) sow in seed trays or direct in summer for winter maturing, has a high resistance to cold. 12g

Cicoria Rossa Di Treviso DBO40/4
NZD $8.00

Radicchio Variegata Di Chioggia DBO40/23

A mid-early variegated radicchio that is very easy to grow.Ball shaped with dark red leaves and white splashes. The colour will become more intense in the cooler weather. Will initially grow masses of loose leaves and then head up. 12g packet

Radicchio di Chioggia40/23
NZD $8.00

Cicoria (Radicchio) Italico A Costa Rossa DBO 40/86

Red Stem Radicchio (Cicoria) which some call red dandelion as the leaves look similar but in fact this is genuine chicory. Upright,mid-late this has distinctive large red stems and brilliant -green serrated leaves. Grow most of the year avoiding the high temps of summer. 12g pkt

Radicchio Italico A Costa Rossa DBO 40/86
NZD $8.00

Cicoria Zuccherina Di Trieste DBO 40/18

We have been asked by so many Kiwi- Italians to import this variety so finally here it is! From Trieste in the Friuli Venezia Giula region. A small sweet baby heart -shaped leaf with tiny stems which can be grown throughout the year and will regrow after cutting. This is a very fast- growing leaf ( 30 days) 12 gram pkt.. thousands of seeds!

Cicoria Zuccherina Di Trieste DBO 40/18
NZD $8.00

Radicchio Rosa GLOP 40/87

Please Note NZ- You require a long cool growing winter climate to acheive the pink colour. A rare pink chicory known in Italy as" Radicchio la Rosa de Veneto" is a loose heading radicchio. A brilliant pink with soft pink hues. The flavour is slightly less bitter- sweet than others. Best colour and flavour is acheived in cool weather. Takes about 4 months to mature.Sought after variety for many chefs around the world. One of Franchi's professional series which is suitable for market gardeners and experienced backyard growers 0.5g approx 300 seeds

Radicchio Rosa GLOP40/87
NZD $8.30

Radicchio Palla Rossa Precoce DBO 40/68

This radicchio -type chicory has dramatic colour contast. An early variety that forms tight crunchy heads that hold for months. The heads are bright crisp and tender . A good winter variety but its not frost hardy. Try grilled radicchio risotto with balsamic vinegar 12gram packet=lots of seeds

Radicchio Palla Rossa Precoce DBO 40/68
NZD $8.00

Radicchio Rosa Isontina DBOS 40/91

Cicoria Rosa Isontina originates from Friuli-Venizia Giulia region in NE Italy. Great wine region too! This radicchio has a delicate rose-shaped head with crunchy fuchsia coloured leaves.A late variety. 4 g pkt

Radicchio Rosa Isontina DBOS 40/91
NZD $8.30

Artichoke ( Carciofo) Violetto Precoce DBO21/2

Violet artichoke from Tuscany. Spineless,thornless medium size artichoke with delicately nutty flavoured, fleshy buds and rich violet colouration. These buds are less iron flavoured than the larger varieties. The edible bits are delicious sliced finely and added to salad leaves, a little dressing and shavings of Parmigiano-Reggiano. Sow under cover in early spring / autumn and transplant, or sow direct into well drained soil. Thin to 80cm spacing. Artichokes are very attractive plants so can be easily incorporated into a non-vegetable garden space. 2.5g approx 70 seeds

Carciofo DBO21/2
NZD $8.00

Artichoke (Carciofo) Green Globe DBO 21/9

This is a traditional green globe artichoke which is new to Franchi in 2014. It is as expected quite a large plant that is hardy. The shape is conical. The buds are bigger than the Violetto. 2.5g pkt

Artichoke Green Globe
NZD $8.00

Artichoke (Carciofo) Violetta

Asparagus (Asparago)Argenteuil DBO 5/1

A French heirloom aspagarus developed in the 18th century. It grew around a convent founded by Charlemagne in the 7th century. Argenteuil is synonymous with white asparagus. Produces large 2cm thick silver green/purple spears earlier in the spring than most varieties. Plant seed to produce crowns in the first year and then move to a more permanent position. 1st year leave it but the 2nd year cut half. Can adapt to a wide variety of free draining soils. Needs full to semi-sun. Will produce for 20 years. 2.5g pkt

Asparago Argenteuil DBO5/1
NZD $8.00

Black Tuscan Kale (Cavolo Nero) di Toscana DBO35/7

Kale. A native of Tuscany also known as Black Kale. Franchi Lacinato Nero di Toscana is considered the best quality Kale available by many International chefs. A dark green colour that turns almost black when cooked. . Essential vegetable to make the Florentine National dish Ribollita Toscana. Try pan fried potato and chorizo with cavolo nero . Develops more flavour as it grows so choose leaves about 20cm. Thrives in the cooler temperatures. Tuscan kale is more tender than most kales so use the baby leaves in a salad mix. Direct plant 2-3 seeds every 20cm, and thin to one plant. 8g packet

Cavolo Laciniato DBO35/7
NZD $8.00

Broccoli ( Cavolo Broccolo) Ramosa Calabrese DBO25/23

“Sprouting Broccoli from Calabria” is a tender variety with a superior taste, and produces plenty side shoots. Compact med sized head. Sow in seed boxes and transplant or direct sow 50cm apart from summer through to spring. Allow 60 –80 days to pick. Small florets will grow back after harvesting. 7g approx 1200 seeds.

Cavolo Broccolo DBO25/23
NZD $8.00

Broccoli Spigariello ( friarielli) Broccoletti DBO 25/26

Friarielli. One of the most sought after,iconic and renowned vegetables of Italy. Fast growing,high quality and depth of flavour. Used traditionally on Pizza in Naples with olives and chilli.When you pick the central flower the plant begins to produce side shoots (spigariello) that have tiny florets. Friarielli is variety of broccoli which is grown also for immature edible leaves.Neopolitans go crazy for this vegetable! 6 gram packet.

Broccoli Spigariello DBO 25/26
NZD $8.00

Cabbage (Cavolo Verza) San Michele DBO 33/15

Please note - this cabbage come from an apline region of Italy and requires very cool temps to form a head. Savoy-type cabbage from a cooler province of northern Italy. Green crinkly tender leaves with some red/purple colour in the centre and a mild sweet flavour. A spectacular- looking plant with a large firm head. The taste improves with the cooler weather. 80-90 days. 8g packet

Cavolo Verza San Michele DBO 33/
NZD $8.00

Cardoon ( Cardo) Gobo di Nizza Monferrata DBO22/8

Artichokes on Steroids! ‘Hunchback of Nice’ very popular in Piedmonte where it is usually braised or made into a gratin. Grown for its stems only. The stems resemble rib-liked celery and need to have the fibrous tissue stripped before the stems are prepared for the dish. They have a subtle artichoke - celery like flavour. Sow under cover in early spring; transplant or direct sow into fertile, well-drained soil after the last frost at 80cm spacing. Fleshy large grey leaves and broad stalks makes this a very impressive-looking plant . Easy to germinate. Cardoons are often referred to as artichokes on steroids. 5g

Cardo DBO22/8
NZD $8.00

Carrot (Carota) Nantese di Chioggia DBO23/7

A mid-early deep orange heartless Venetian carrot. Medium size root with sweet taste and crisp texture. Plant directly 1cm deep into prepared friable soil, spring to early summer in rows 15-20cm apart. Thin to 8-10cm and keep weed free. 9 g approx 6000 seeds.

Carota DBO23/7
NZD $8.00

Carrot (Carota) Chantenay DBO 23/37

Old French heirloom variety famous not so much for its good looks but its pronounced carroty flavour. Medium sized,stubby and bright orange. Good winter carrot sweet and crisp. 9 grams

Carrot(Carota) Chantenay DBO 23/37
NZD $8.00

Carrot (Carota) Da Foraggio Jaune Du Doubs DBO 23/40

Dates back to the 16th century. This rustic saffron-yellow French heirloom comes from the town of Doubs in the central East of France. Once used just for forage but then discovered for its culinary quality. A late variety that is a good reliable producer. The long tapered roots have a crisp texture and a lingering sweet flavour. Colour is more pronounced when cooked. Plant directly 1cm deep into prepared friable soil, spring to early summer in rows 15-20cm apart. Thin to 8-10cm and keep weed free. 9 gram packet

Carota Jaune Du Doubs DBO 23/40
NZD $8.00

Celeriac(sedano rapa) Bianco del Veneto DBO125/4

A late variety Celeraic and one of the best in Italy( from Venice.) The plant is medium sized with ample leaves that can be used in soup. A knobbly exterior and creamy subtle fiberless white flesh that has as celery-like flavour with added nuttiness. Sow into seed trays 0.5cm deep from early spring until summer then transplant outside after the last frosts and space 15-20cm.Can be slow germination and seedlings for a long time before bulb forms. Worth the wait though. Too much nitrogen in the soil will promote leaf rather than bulb growth. 5g pkt

Celeriac DBO125/4
NZD $8.00

Eggplant(Melanzana) Violetta Lunga DBO90/1

The classic Italian eggplant’ Beautiful glossy deep purple hues. Long slightly curved rustic Italian eggplant grown throughout Italy. It is firmer and a little sweeter than other varieties. Use for traditional dishes such as Melanzana alla Parmigiana or warm Moroccan salad with tomatoes and coriander. Good reliable producer in around 70 days. Grow from 8 week old seedlings or direct sow when soil is warm, space 40 to 50 cm apart and provide support. 4g pkt.

Melanzana violetta lunga DBO90/1
NZD $8.00

Leek(Porro)Gigante d'Inverno DBO 107/23

“Winter giant” big and long. This hardy vegetable adds tangy sweetness with even the thinnest slice from the long white stems. Thrives in the cooler months. Sow 1cm deep from spring to early summer, allowing 5 cm between each plant. They are good winter harvesting plants,only needing an air temp of 10c once planted. 6g approx 1500 seeds.

Porro (leek) DBO107/23
NZD $8.00

Onion ( Cipolla) Tropea Rosso Tonda DBO43/22

Mid to late variety. The most famous of all Italian red onions and possibly the highest-quality red onion in Italy. This Calabrian variety is very sweet and ideal for making onion paste and for stuffings. Changes from white when young to red in maturity It stores very well in a shady cool room. Sow in Spring and Autumn. 4g approx 1250 seeds.

Cipolla DBO43/22
NZD $8.00

Onion (Cipolla ) Barletta DBO 42/1

A small white salad onion with a bulb about 2cm in diameter and slightly flat at maturity. Direct sow in spring after last frosts and keep well weeded. The thinnings can be used in salads. 4gram packet

Cipolla Barletta DBo42/1
NZD $8.00

Pumpkin(Zucca) Marina di Chioggia DBO145/2

An heirloom pumpkin from the seaside area of Chioggia ( key-ohj-jah ) near Venice. Abundant turban-shaped medium-large size fruits that are deep blue-green. The deep yellow orange flesh is very sweet but not sugary,the texture creamy smooth. The deep orange flesh is used for pumpkin ravioli and gnocchi in northern Italy . Excellent storer. Franchi have provided us with the BEST tasting pumpkin ever! Plant seeds 2cm deep early spring, in hills. 4g

Zucca Marina Di Chioggia DBO145/2
NZD $8.00

Spinach (Spinacio)Merlo Nero DBO127/20

‘Blackbird’ small brilliant green open-pollinated Spinach which is slow to bolt. Ready for picking in around 50 days. Direct sow autumn and spring and pick when leaves are young and tender. Avoid the heat of mid summer. Holds together well when cooked. #spinach and ricotta lasagna 14g approx 1000 seeds.

Spinacio DBO127/20
NZD $8.00

Zucchini Fiorentino DBO146/52

A long green zucchini and quite deeply ribbed. Fiorentino is a large robust plant and a good producer of firm,fleshy fruits with a great nutty flavour. Lots of flowers for stuffing and remember to pick when quite small to fully appreciate the trademark flavour of this variety. 8g pkt

Zucchino Fiorentino DBO146/52
NZD $8.00

Zucchini Romanesco DBO146/11

a foodies favourite.. a good producer of grey/green fruit with characteristic ribs. Excellent creamy,sweet flesh and good texture. Produces many flower blossoms over a long season. This zucchini does not turn watery when big however for best flavour pick when quite small. Stuff flowers with the many options available including fresh ricotta finely chopped spinach and nutmeg. 8 gram pkt 10 g pkt

Zucchino Romanesco DBO146/11
NZD $8.00

Zucchino Striato D'Italia DBO 146/2

This is classic tasty striped zucchini. Dark green with light green stripes and small ribbing. A productive bushy plant with med size fruits yielding up to 5 k of fruit per plant. plant 2cm deep after last frosts. Does well in cool weather. Pick when the fruits are no more than10cm to appreciate the full flavour either raw or cooked. Try Zucchini trifolati 8g pkt

Zucchino Striata D' Italia DBO146/2
NZD $8.00

Zucca Marina di Chioggia (pumpkin)

Cima Di Rapa (turnip top) Quarantina DBO41/2

40 day Broccoli type Turnip tops. A bitter-sweet taste that Italians love. Use in the well-known pasta dish from Puglia, Orecchiette with turnip tops (cime di rapa) and chilli. A small plant 20 to 25cm high, ready in about 40 days. Succession plant for continuous harvest. Pick as heads form as they quickly go to seed. If left too long it will go stringy when cooked. 15g approx 6000 seeds.

Cima Di Rapa( Quarantina) DBO41/2
NZD $8.00

Fennel (Finocchio) Montebianco DBO67/17

mid /late variety. 'Mont Blanc' alpine fennel. Large tight head which is tasty and crisp. A vigourous plant that prefers light fertile soil and will run to seed in hot weather, Plant 1.5cm deep 15cm between plants late summer for autumn-winter harvest. 8g approx 1500 seeds.

Finocchio DBO 23/41
NZD $8.00

Fennel (Finocchio) Romanesco VXO 62/5

Classic bulb fennel from Rome. Early medium-sized bulb with thick tightly wrapped stalks. Prefers the coolness of autumn but will grow well spring-summer. Around 85 days to harvest. Use the slightly anise-flavoured bulbs by braising or sliced paper thin in a salad or antipasto. Fennel and fish pie is delicious. Please note these seeds are loose not in a foil packet as most Franchi seed is packed. 5 gram packet

Finocchio VXO 62/5
NZD $8.00

Kohlrabi (cavolo rapa) Purple Vienna DBO 32/3

Early purple Kohlrabri is a spherical vegetable with leaf topped stems that protrude from the base bulb that has red skin and tender white flesh. Flavour is similar to broccoli stems celeriac or even radish. The edible part of the plant is the above-surface bulb it forms. Pick when the size of a tennis ball (no larger) A shallow rooted plant that needs regular watering. Plant in full sun. It needs to grow fast to be enjoyed at its best. The bulb can be eaten raw,steamed stir- fried. We love it raw grated into a salad. Kohlrabi chips are delicious. 6 gram packet

Cavolo rapa Kohlrabi DBO 32/3
NZD $8.00

Zucchino Striato D'Italia

Basil (Basilico) Bolloso Napoletano DBO13/8

‘Blistered leaf from Naples’ Famous Neapolitan large leafed basil with intense aromatics and flavour. Has many uses. In Italy it is sometimes used for wrapping Mozzarella balls. Sow outside or transplant late spring into a sunny position. 5g approx

Basilico DBO13/8
NZD $8.00

Basil (Basilico) Foglie di lattuga DBO13/3

‘Lettuce leaf basil’ has huge leaves the size of your hand and a mild taste and does best in a warm sunny position in light fertile soil. Sow outside or transplant in late spring and thin to 1cm deep x15cm apart. This is not a basil to make Pesto but instead use for wrappimg. 5g approx 2000 seeds.

Basilico DBO13/3
NZD $8.00

Basil (Basilico) Italiano Classico DBO13/2

Everyone loves basil. This is classic 'Genovese -style basil at its best; brilliant green in colour and highly aromatic with a sweetness and a disinctive flavour of basil. This is the basil to make pesto. Sow outside or transplant late spring, thin to 25x10cm. Basil hates cool weather so ensure you have it in a warm environment. 8g approx 3000 seeds.

Basilico DBO13/2
NZD $8.00

Basil Misticanza di Basilico GLBA 13/15

Franchi Golden Line. A superior mixture of 12 different basil varieties with varying coloured leaves for flavour and aromatics including cinnamon,limone,thai siam,classico and red rubin. Ideal for growing in containers. 5g packet

Misticanza Basilico GLBA13/15
NZD $8.30

Capers (Cappero ) DBA 20/2

Please read SEEDY FOCUS PAGE on the website for further Caper info A native to the Mediterranean, Capers require a dry heat and intense sunlight to thrive. Put the seeds in foil pkt in cool part of fridge for four weeks prior to germination. Germination can take some time so be very patient. With tweezers carefully grip the seed and rub one side with an emery board a few times. This will wear off the some of the thick coat to reach the germ within.Soak seeds in warm water overnight. Then, blot the seeds on kitchen paper and plant into moist cacti and succulent mix.Cover lightly.Insulate the seed tray on top with layer of damp newspaper and keep warm until germination begins. A heat pad will work well. Special thanks to the late great Virgil Evetts for this germination advice. They may have flowers the first year but it is more likely to flower the second season. After the plant is established they can live for decades. Caper plants are very attractive and highly aromatic. 0.75 g pkt

Cappero DBA 20/2
NZD $8.30

Chamomile (Camomilla) DBA 18/1

Fragrant yellow daisy-like flowers this German Chamomile is a very hardy annual. In early spring just scatter the seeds,press down lightly. 1.2g

Chamomile (Camomilla) DBA 18/1
NZD $8.00

Chives (Erba Cipollina)DBA53/1

Early well-known annual. Chives have thier own delicate onion flavour which is why its doesn't survive lengthy cooking. Easy to grow in full sun and rich moist soil. Keep clipped to stimulate growth. The edible chive flowers can be used in salads. 2g packet

Erba Cipollina DBA 53/1
NZD $8.00

French Thyme Timo Di Provenza DBA 132/2

A staple in Mediterranean cooking. Provence thyme is so much more aromatic and sweeter than English Thyme. Perennial thyme needs to be planted in spring in an area that gets full sun. Preserve by drying or freezing. I cannot stress enough how good this thyme is in cooking. 0.5gram packet

Timo Di Provenza DBA132/2
NZD $8.00

Oregano (Origano) DBA94/1

No Neapolitan cooking is complete without the use of origano whether fresh of dried. It is a staple in Italian cuisine. Retains its flavour in hot dishes if it’s added toward the end of cooking. A robust plant with large leaves and a robust flavour to match. Very easy to grow. Pick the leaves in the morning, once the sun warms up the leaves they begin to lose the oils that provide taste and aroma. 0.5g approx 6000 seeds

Origano DBA94/1
NZD $8.00

St Johns Wort (Iperico erba di san giovanni) DBO75/50

A perennial plant with extensive creeping rhizomes.Stems are erect,leaves yellow -green: the flowers with 5 petals are bright yellow. Sow almost year round with the exception of high summer temps.Plant in a sunny position with a light cover of soil,then gently water in. Used mainly for medicinal purposes.0.5g

Iperico erba di san giovanni DBO 75/50
NZD $8.00

Pesto ingredients

Sage (Salvia Officinale)DBA119/1

A robust Italian herb with beautiful blue-purple flowers . Sow in spring in a sunny position,will tolerate frost and drought.Sage leaves crisped in melted butter or olive oil make a perfect sauce for gnocchi 1.5g packet

Sage (Salvia Offinale) DBA 119/1
NZD $8.00

Franchi have discontinued this range of vegetable soaps.

Green Paradise offer a range of high quality artisan vegetable soaps handmade in Milano,Italy.

These fragrant soaps are made from the finest vegetable based ingredients. They have a silky texture,softly scented and free from colorants.

The stylish outer is made from eco-friendly paper and can be used to lightly scent your drawer.