Common Chicory

(Cichorium intybus)

Common Chicory (Cichorium intybus)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Cichorium intybus, commonly known as Common chicory, is a perennial herbaceous plant of the daisy family Asteraceae, native to Europe but now found in North America, China, and Australia. It thrives in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, roadsides, and fields, often in calcareous soils. Chicory grows to a height of up to 1.5 meters (4 ft 11 in) with a tough, grooved, and hairy stem. The plant is notable for its bright blue, and occasionally white or pink, flower heads that are 3–4 cm wide. Flowering occurs from July to October, and the flowers are quite showy, opening and closing at the exact same time each day.

Chicory is valued for its striking blue flowers and its use as a coffee substitute when roots are roasted and ground. It is also cultivated for its leaves, which are used in salads. In gardens, it requires full sun and can tolerate a range of water conditions and soil types, including those with poor drainage. Chicory can be a beneficial addition to pollinator gardens due to its attractive flowers. However, gardeners should be aware that it can become invasive outside its native range and may require management to prevent spreading.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 2-4 feet
  • Width: 1.5-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Blue
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Semi-Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low, Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Butterfly Garden, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Rock Garden, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Thrives in grasslands, roadsides, and fields, often in calcareous soils

Other Names

Common Names: Belgian Endive, Succory, Witloof, French Endive, Blue Sailors, Chickory, Coffeeweed, Common Chicory, Bunk Chicory, Wild Chicory

Scientific Names: , Cichorium intybus, Cichorium intybus var. intybus, Cichorium intybus var. foliosum, Cichorium intybus subsp. sativum, Cichorium intybus var. sativum, Cichorium intybus f. album, Cichorium intubus, Cichorium intybus var. indivisum, Cichorium callosum

GBIF Accepted Name: Cichorium intybus L.