An outstanding variety for harvesting from winter through to spring. Excellent garden performance and winter hardiness, showing good tolerance against rust and bolting.

Good weight of stem without bulbing and dark leaves. Dark leaves contrast with pure white, thick stems of superb flavour.

Sow mid March to late April. Sow thinly, 1cm (½in) deep in drills 30cm (12in) apart in soil which has been raked to a fine tilth.

Carefully lift when plants are large enough to handle and transplant to 23-25cm (9-10in) apart in the row and 45cm (18in) between rows, using a trowel or dibber, and water in. Keep watered during dry weather. Earth up the stems during the growing season to increase the length of blanched stem.

Prefers well-drained, rich soil in full sun.

Delicious baked in a rich cheese sauce.