Long Red Onion ‘Tropea Rossa Lunga’ is an esteemed Calabrian speciality, treasured for its remarkable sweetness and elegant elongated form. Still produced in its region of origin, this onion holds DOP status , a mark of authenticity comparable to Champagne , and is celebrated for its delicate flavour and tender, rosy flesh.
So sweet it is said you can almost eat it like an apple, this mid‑early variety produces long, tapered bulbs with reddish‑purple skin and firm, succulent flesh. Its naturally high sugar content makes it exceptional for caramelising, grilling, or enjoying fresh in salads. Featured on BBC Gardeners’ World with Monty Don, The Hairy Bikers, and by Stanley Tucci, it remains one of Italy’s most iconic onions. Approx. 500 seeds per packet.
🌱 Sowing information
Sow from April to September in well‑drained soil or seed trays. Cover lightly and keep the soil gently moist until germination.
☀️ Light exposure
Requires full sun to develop sweetness and colour.
💧 Water needs
Water regularly during establishment. Reduce watering as bulbs mature to enhance flavour and firmness.
🌡️ Germination temperature & time
Germinates best in mild, steady temperatures. Expect germination in 10–20 days.
📏 Plant spacing & final size
Thin or transplant seedlings 10–15 cm apart. Produces long, slender bulbs with vibrant purple skin.
Bullet Technical Data
🌱 Sowing depth: 0,5–2 cm (¼–¾”)
📅 Sow: April–September (in well‑drained soil or seed trays)
☀️ Light: Full sun
🌡️ Germination: 10–20 days in mild, steady temperatures
📏 Height: Medium foliage; long, slender bulbs
🪴 Spacing: 10–15 cm between plants
⏳ Harvest: Around 90–120 days from sowing, when tops begin to fall and yellow
🔢 Seeds: Approx. 500 seeds per packet
When to sow
February to April. Start indoors in February for the best bulbs. Transplant outside from April. In Ireland, harvest from August to October. They store well through winter.
How to grow
Tropea onions need a warm, well-drained spot. They do not like wet feet. Thin to 10cm apart once seedlings reach 10cm. Stop watering when the leaves start to fall. Lift before the first autumn frost and dry in a warm spot for two weeks before storing.
Recipe idea
Tropea onion salad. Slice two onions paper thin. Dress with olive oil, red wine vinegar and a pinch of oregano. Leave for twenty minutes. Eat alongside any grilled meat or fish. In Calabria this is on the table at every summer meal.
