Type
white stem, heirloom
Swiss Chard variety
Lucullus Swiss Chard
An old Italian strain with crumpled green leaves and pale ribs. It is productive and has a somewhat softer look than Fordhook Giant.
Days to maturity
50-60
Best for
traditional kitchen gardens, sauteing
About Lucullus
Lucullus is a heat-tolerant heirloom chard with light green, heavily crumpled and savoyed leaves borne on pale white stalks. It is a dependable, productive variety long favored in warmer regions for its ability to keep producing through summer. The tender leaves have a mild, spinach-like flavor.
Growing Lucullus Swiss Chard
Space plants about 8 to 12 inches apart in full sun, and take advantage of its heat tolerance by growing it through late spring and summer as well as fall. Keep it well watered during hot spells to maintain tender, quick growth. Harvest outer leaves regularly at 8 to 10 inches to keep the plant producing new foliage.
Full growing guide
For planting dates, care, and harvest that apply to all swiss chard, see the complete guide.
How to grow Swiss ChardOther swiss chard varieties
Variety characteristics are general guidance for US home gardens; performance varies by climate, soil, and season. Seed and plant availability differs by supplier. Page updated Aug 4, 2026.