Dragon Carrot
Daucus carota
Germination ~ 77% Packed for 2024 -2025
Seeds per pack ~ 150
Dragon carrot is as delicious as they are beautiful! So many purple carrots are not tough and notably less sweet than their orange cousins, making Dragon all the more exceptional.
DAYS TO MATURITY: 70-80 days
PLANT DESCRIPTION: Daucus carota. With a vibrant purple skin and a bright orange interior, along with a unique yellow core. This variety has the distinctive Chantenay shape.
Chantenay carrots are small in size, averaging 10-12 centimeters in length and 5-6 centimeters in diameter, and have a thick, stout, and conical shape tapering to a blunt point on the non-stem end
HISTORY: Dragon carrots are as delicious as they are beautiful! So many purple carrots are not tough and notably less sweet than their orange cousins, making Dragon all the more exceptional. They're purple on the outside with a sweet orange core and occasional rings of yellow, the genius selection of John Navazio sharing his iteration of the work of countless generations of brilliant indigenous seedkeepers.
NUTRITIONAL VALUE: This Dragon is rich in anthocyanins, the antioxidant responsible for its vibrant purple hue, which has been associated with potential health benefits such as anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. Beyond its antioxidant content, Dragon carrots provide essential nutrients like vitamin A, contributing to vision health, and dietary fiber, promoting digestive well-being. The distinct coloration of Dragon carrots indicates the presence of various phytonutrients that may offer additional health advantages.
FOOD PREP: Roasting Dragon carrots with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and your favorite herbs enhances their natural sweetness and creates a flavorful side dish. These carrots can also be blended into vibrant and nutritious soups, adding both color and depth to the dish. Pickling Dragon carrots is another delightful option, providing a tangy and crisp addition to salads or sandwiches. Incorporating them into vegetable stir-fries or incorporating them into raw vegetable platters adds both texture and nutritional value.
GROWING TIPS: Annual. Sow the seeds directly into the garden bed after the last frost, placing them about a quarter to a half-inch deep. Ensure proper spacing, leaving approximately 2 inches between each seed. Keep the soil consistently moist during the germination period, which typically takes 14-21 days. Once the seedlings emerge, thin them to ensure proper spacing, allowing at least 3 inches between plants. Dragon carrots thrive in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Regular watering, especially during dry periods, is crucial for steady growth and preventing the roots from becoming tough.