Swiss chard Bright Lights

Best Swiss Chard Varieties for Colorful Garden Beds

ByStephen Albert

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Swiss chard isn’t just delicious—it’s also one of the most visually striking vegetables you can grow. With stems in vivid reds, oranges, pinks, yellows, and whites, chard can double as both an edible crop and an ornamental garden highlight. Choosing the right varieties will give you a harvest that’s as beautiful as it is tasty.

Swiss chard Bright Lights
Swiss chard Bright Lights

Why Grow Colorful Swiss Chard

Colorful varieties add brightness to vegetable beds, raised planters, and even flower borders. The colorful stalks contrast beautifully with deep green or bronze leaves, making them stand out in any season.

Top Colorful Swiss Chard Varieties

1. Bright Lights

A mix of red, orange, pink, white, and gold stems. Mild flavor, tender leaves, and ornamental appeal—perfect for garden beds or containers.

2. Ruby Red (Rhubarb Chard)

Deep crimson stems and dark green leaves. Slightly stronger flavor, great for cooking and dramatic garden displays.

3. Peppermint

White stems with pink striping—unique and eye-catching. Sweet, tender leaves suitable for fresh eating or light cooking.

4. Orange Fantasia

Bright orange stems with glossy green leaves. Sweet and mild flavor, ideal for salads and sautés.

5. Fordhook Giant

Classic white stems with broad, crinkled green leaves. While less flashy, its size and vigor make it a great contrast plant.

Growing Tips for Maximum Color

  • Plant in full sun for the brightest stem colors.
  • Harvest regularly to encourage new colorful growth.
  • Pair with herbs or flowers to create a vibrant edible landscape.

Note from My Experience

In my raised beds, I mix Bright Lights and Ruby Red along the edges for a border effect. Not only do they draw attention, but they also supply tender leaves for the kitchen all season long.

Takeaway: Choosing colorful Swiss chard varieties will enhance your garden’s visual appeal while providing a steady supply of nutritious greens.

🌿 Swiss Chard Learning Hub

Start here: The Ultimate Chard Growing Guide: From Seed to Harvest

✅ Planting & Seasonal Timing

✅ Growing Techniques

✅ Care & Maintenance

✅ Pests & Diseases

✅ Harvesting & Use

✅ Varieties & Selection

✅ Companion Planting & Rotation

Stephen Albert is a horticulturist, master gardener, and certified nurseryman who has taught at the University of California for more than 25 years. He holds graduate degrees from the University of California and the University of Iowa. His books include Vegetable Garden Grower’s Guide, Vegetable Garden Almanac & Planner, Tomato Grower’s Answer Book, and Kitchen Garden Grower’s Guide. His Vegetable Garden Grower’s Masterclass is available online. Harvesttotable.com has more than 10 million visitors each year.

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