Allium cepa var. ascalonicum 'Cuisse de Poulet Echalion' is an heirloom banana shallot originating from western France, known locally as 'Leg of the Chicken'. This elegant elongated variety features rose-gold skin and tender, delicately flavored flesh, being a cross between onion and shallot with milder taste. Seeds germinate readily at moderate temperatures (15-25°C) within 7-14 days, requiring light for seed contact with soil but not continuous illumination, making it an easy-to-grow cultivar for home gardeners.
Before sowing
No pre-treatment needed — sow directly.
No pre-treatment required for shallot seeds
Sowing
What to expect
Tips
Press seeds lightly into soil surface after sowing to ensure good contact with growing medium; do not bury deeply. Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during germination. Sow indoors 8-10 weeks before last frost, or direct sow in garden. This variety is seed-grown (does not multiply by division) and matures in 100-120 days. Once seedlings reach 2-3 inches, thin to one plant per cell or space 4-6 inches apart. Transplant when seedlings are 5-6 inches tall with at least three true leaves. Excellent for early spring sowing to ensure long growing season.
Sources: PFAF Plant Database, Johnny's Selected Seeds, Seed Savers, The Seed Collection, Harvest to Table, Gardener's Path, Southern Seeds, Thresh Seed Company, Quinta dos Ouriques, Specialty Produce
