Early Spring in Lucca
The first wisteria of 2025 in the Giardino degli Observant.
As March heads into April there are definite hints of spring in Lucca. While the weather is still unpredictable, there have been some days just sunny enough to feel a touch of spring warmth on our faces. I haven’t put away my warm coat and scarves (or my umbrella) just yet, but I can feel the day coming when I will be able to pack them away until next fall.
In my mind, two things mark the early spring season in Italy. First is the appearance of blossoms. March’s Magnolias fade quickly but are soon replaced with Wisteria. The Wisteria are just beginning to bloom with the first sprays of flowers appearing last week. This past week also saw the first white rose along the path I walk when heading for my language lessons at Lucca Italian School. Soon the whole path will be lined with them. In the past few days I also came across a bed of white calla lilies, something I had not seen before in Lucca. Gorgeous!
Calla Lilies in bloom at the entrance to the Casa di Cura Santa Zita
Flowers are also blooming in window boxes and on terraces throughout Lucca, spots that will become even more colorful after the spring Verde Mura which is scheduled for the first weekend in April. The annual garden show showcases flowers, herbs, fruit trees, and anything else needed for the garden.
The second sign of early spring for me happens in the markets. Agretti is the first to appear (sometimes as early as late January / early February). This past week asparagus and artichokes were in abundance. Pots of herbs arrived at the Ortofrutta this week too.
There are also fresh spring peas, perfect raw in salads or added to a pasta primavera. And zucchini flowers! While they are wonderful stuffed and fried, I never actually go to the trouble to prepare them in that way (isn’t that what restaurants are for?). But, chopped along with the zucchini itself they make a tasty addition to a frittata. Big bundles of Tropea Onions, available year round from southern Italy, add a splash of color to the Spring market.
From southern Italy come bright red, flavorful strawberries. Topped with a whipped combination of cream and mascarpone they make a delicious yet simple dessert. Crumble a few amaretti cookies on top for an extra treat.
As early spring progresses to the warmth of late April and May, Lucca will provide an evolving parade of opportunities to enjoy the colors, blooms, and tastes of Tuscany.