Chenopodiaceae Beta vulgaris L. (Cicla group)
Source: Magness et al. 1971
Chard is a foliage beet, developed for its large fleshy leaf petioles and broad, crisp leaf blades. Plants may be started in beds and transplanted to the field; but more commonly direct field seedling, followed by plant thinning, is practiced. Plantings made in the spring will produce leaves for greens in about 60 days and will continue to produce "greens" or leaves until frost if the growing point is not injured. The edible leaf stems and blades are exposed as in spinach and turnip greens.
Production in U.S.: 324 acres, 1959 census. Probably about 1,000 tons.
Use: Mostly marketed fresh; cooked before consumed.
Part of plant consumed: Leaf blades and stems.