Cretan Spiny Chicory 'Stamnagathi'
A prized wild chicory that grows throughout the rigid mountainsides in Crete. Characterised by dark green, serrated leaves with a strong bitter flavour that is cherished for cooking and salads. The plant contains a number of essential vitamins and is recognised as a Greek superfood. Grow in either part or full sun with free draining and alkaline soil.
A prized wild chicory that grows throughout the rigid mountainsides in Crete. Characterised by dark green, serrated leaves with a strong bitter flavour that is cherished for cooking and salads. The plant contains a number of essential vitamins and is recognised as a Greek superfood. Grow in either part or full sun with free draining and alkaline soil.
A prized wild chicory that grows throughout the rigid mountainsides in Crete. Characterised by dark green, serrated leaves with a strong bitter flavour that is cherished for cooking and salads. The plant contains a number of essential vitamins and is recognised as a Greek superfood. Grow in either part or full sun with free draining and alkaline soil.
Health Benefits
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Stamnagathi is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and linoleic acid—compounds known to reduce inflammation and support cardiovascular health. Linoleic acid may help prevent fat buildup in arteries, promoting better circulation and heart function.
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Loaded with vitamins E and C, this wild chicory helps protect your body from oxidative stress while supporting immune health and skin regeneration. These antioxidants play a key role in cellular repair and reducing signs of aging.
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Stamnagathi contains a potent mix of calcium and iron—two minerals vital for bone strength and healthy red blood cell production. This makes it especially beneficial for those looking to support energy levels and long-term skeletal health.
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Long used in Cretan cuisine, the bitter compounds in Stamnagathi stimulate digestion and support liver detoxification. Whether eaten raw or cooked, this wild green is celebrated not only for its taste but also for its natural cleansing properties.
Additional Information
Cichorium spinosum
This prized chicory grows wild along the mountains of the Greek island Crete.
Locally known as ‘Stamnagathi’ it is has dark green, serrated leaves that grow outward in small spirals, with the leaves being held together by a small root.
The plant contains high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E and C, Calcium and iron. It also had linoleic acid, which is known to get rid of accumulated fat in arteries. It is recognised as a Greek superfood.
The leaves are fantastic in cooking. They have a strong bitter flavour which is subtly sweet once cooked/boiled. You can prepare like other greens and chicory varieties. Young tender leaves can also be eaten raw in salads.
It grows all year round, but is best in the winter and spring, when it’s leaves are most tender. It will slow down in Summer and start to flower bringing a beautiful display of blue flowers.
To encourage new growth and an ongoing harvest throughout the year, cut down to above new growth at base.
It will grow well in either part or full sun, and prefers free draining and alkaline soil. Very hardy once established.
Will grow up to 20-30cm tall before blooming and will spread 30-50cm after a couple of seasons.