Key Features
- Versatile chicory herb with attractive blue flowers and edible leafy growth
- Upright perennial plant that adds texture and seasonal interest to gardens
- Suitable for herb gardens, cottage gardens, borders, and naturalized planting areas
- Deep-rooted plant known for its hardy nature and adaptability to different conditions
- Attractive blooms provide additional visual interest when plants reach flowering stage
Growing Benefits
- Adds useful edible greenery and distinctive flowers to the home garden
- Easy-to-grow choice for gardeners interested in traditional herbs and vegetables
- Deep roots help chicory establish well in suitable, well-drained garden soil
- Attractive blooms bring color and a natural cottage-garden appearance
- Can be grown as an herb, leafy vegetable, or ornamental garden plant
Seed Specifications
- Common Name: Chicory
- Botanical Name: Cichorium intybus
- Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial, commonly grown as a leafy crop
- Colors: Blue flowers; green leaves; pale roots
- Height: Typically reaches about two to four feet when mature
- Sunlight: Full sun; tolerates light partial shade
- Soil: Fertile, well-drained soil with moderate moisture
- Water: Water regularly during establishment; allow excess water to drain
- Germination Time: Usually about one to three weeks under suitable conditions
- Sowing Depth: Sow shallowly, about one-quarter inch deep
- Spacing: Thin or space plants about six to twelve inches apart
- Growing Zones: Generally suitable across USDA Zones three through nine
- Flowering/Maturity: Flowers develop during summer; leafy crops can be harvested while young and tender
- Uses: Herb gardens, leafy greens, roots, borders, cottage gardens, and naturalized plantings
Growing Tips
- Sow seeds in well-drained soil where plants can receive plenty of sunlight.
- Keep the seedbed consistently moist until seedlings become established.
- Thin crowded seedlings to encourage stronger roots and healthier growth.
- Harvest young leaves for a milder flavor and allow selected plants to flower for garden interest.
Seed Storage
Store unused Chicory Herb Seeds in a cool, dry, dark location away from moisture and direct sunlight. Keep seeds sealed in an airtight container or their original packet. Avoid areas exposed to heat and humidity to help maintain seed quality.
Unique Facts About Seeds
- Chicory belongs to the daisy family, Asteraceae, which also includes lettuce and sunflowers.
- Chicory is native to Europe but has become widely naturalized in many parts of the world.
- Its familiar blue flowers typically open during sunny conditions and may close later in the day.
- Chicory has a long taproot, and roasted chicory root has traditionally been used as a coffee substitute or blending ingredient.