🥒 Cucumis sativus Cucumber ‘Piccolo di Parigi’ – Traditional French Pickling Cucumber with Crisp Texture

‘Piccolo di Parigi’ is a classic French heirloom cucumber variety prized for its short, cylindrical fruits with dark green skin and crisp, firm flesh. Traditionally grown for pickling and gherkins, it is equally delicious when harvested young for fresh eating. Fast-growing and very productive, this variety produces an abundance of uniform fruits throughout summer and performs well in greenhouses, polytunnels and warm outdoor positions.

Key Features

● Traditional French pickling cucumber variety
● Short, dark green fruits with crisp flesh
● Excellent for gherkins and pickling
● High-yielding and fast-growing plants
● Suitable for greenhouse and outdoor growing

How to Sow & Grow Cucumber ‘Piccolo di Parigi’ (UK)

Sow indoors: IV (April)
Transplant outdoors: V–VI (May–June) after last frost
Direct outdoors: V–VI (May–June) in warm soil
Harvest: VII–IX (July–September)
Life cycle: Annual
Germination temperature: 20–25 °C (68–77 °F)
Average germ time: 7–10 days
Depth: 2–3 cm (1 in)
Light required: Yes
Moisture: Regular watering; keep soil evenly moist
Environment: Full sun (warm, sheltered position)
Soil type: Fertile, well-drained soil rich in organic matter
Plant spacing: 40–50 cm (16–20 in)
Fruit length: 8–12 cm (3–5 in)

Sowing & Growing Tips (variety-specific)

● Harvest fruits young and regularly to encourage continued cropping.
● Feed weekly once flowering begins for best yields.
● Grow vertically with support to save space and improve fruit quality.
● Avoid cold conditions and protect from frost.
● Ideal for traditional homemade pickles and gherkins.

Special Features

● Authentic French pickling cucumber
● Crisp texture and mild flavour
● Heavy cropping throughout summer