Castano Softneck Seed Garlic

Quick Reference

Type: Artichoke Softneck  |  Best for Zones: 5–9  |  Planting Season: Fall (Sept–Dec)
Flavor: Bold, pungent, and savory — intense aroma, excellent raw or roasted
Cloves per Bulb: 12–18, multiple layers with distinctive chestnut-brown inner cloves  |  Bulb Size: Medium-large  |  Storage: 8–10 months
Climate Notes: Adaptable to a range of climates; soft pliable stalk ideal for braiding

About Castano Garlic

Castano is a garlic with personality — bold, beautiful, and unmistakably distinctive. Its name comes from the Spanish word for chestnut, a nod to the striking chestnut-brown color of its inner cloves that contrast beautifully against white and purple-tinged outer wrappers. This is a garlic that looks as good hanging in your kitchen as it tastes in your cooking. An Artichoke softneck with a soft, pliable stalk, Castano is one of the best braiding varieties we offer — functional, decorative, and delicious.

Flavor Profile

Bold, pungent, and savory with an intense aroma that fills the kitchen the moment you start cooking. Castano delivers a powerful garlic presence — excellent raw in dressings and salsas, roasted into a rich, caramelized spread, or used to build deep, complex flavor in sauces, soups, and marinades. When a recipe calls for garlic, Castano delivers more than most. A true garlic lover's variety.

Best Growing Zones

Castano thrives in USDA hardiness zones 5–9, making it a great choice for gardeners across the South, Mid-Atlantic, Pacific Coast, and warmer Northern states. Its adaptability to a range of climates and its softneck nature make it a reliable performer where hardneck varieties may struggle. Gardeners in Tennessee, the Carolinas, Virginia, and the Pacific Northwest will find it an excellent fit.

Planting Instructions

Plant in fall between September and December depending on your zone — softnecks offer more flexibility on planting timing than hardnecks. Separate bulbs into individual cloves just before planting, noting the beautiful chestnut-brown color of the inner cloves. Plant 2 inches deep, pointed end up, spaced 6 inches apart in rows 12 inches apart. Mulch lightly in colder zones. Castano produces vigorous, leafy plants through spring and harvests in early summer.

Storage & Curing

Castano stores for 8–10 months when properly cured — excellent storage life for a bold-flavored softneck. After harvest, cure in a warm, dry, well-ventilated space out of direct sunlight for 3–4 weeks. Its soft, pliable stalk makes it ideal for braiding — braid immediately after harvest before the stalks dry out. Store braided or loose in a cool, dry location with good airflow. Do not refrigerate.

Shipping Info

🧄 Pre-ordered garlic will begin shipping in September for fall planting. All orders placed after October 1st will ship within 5 business days. You'll receive a tracking email once your order ships. Learn more about our shipping.