chicory

Cichorium intybus

Chicory is a bright blue flower that grows in fields and along roads. Its pretty petals open up in the morning sun and close at night. People can use its leaves in salads or make a drink from its roots!

Habitat: Grasslands

Appearance

The chicory has striking sky-blue daisy-like flowers, often with jagged petals, that perch on stiff, branching stems. Its lance-shaped leaves grow mainly at the base, forming a rosette. These vibrant blossoms stand out in fields and roadsides.

KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassMagnoliopsidaOrderAsteralesFamilyAsteraceaeGenusCichorium

chicory

Interesting facts

Chicory flowers magically open in the morning light and close again by afternoon!

Its roasted roots can make a coffee-like drink, popular in some parts of the world!

People have enjoyed chicory as a vegetable and medicine for thousands of years!

You'll often spot bright blue chicory flowers bravely growing along sunny roadsides!

Special abilities

Chicory's flowers follow the sun, opening in morning light and closing by afternoon, which helps maximize light exposure for pollinators.

Chicory has a deep taproot that stores energy, helping it survive dry spells and quickly regrow.

Chicory leaves contain bitter compounds that deter some herbivores, protecting them from being eaten.

Measurements & details

Height: 30-150 cm
Spread: 30-60 cm
Flower Size: 2-4 cm
Bloom Season: Summer to fall
Is Edible: Yes
Toxicity: None
Lifecycle: Perennial
Pollination Method: Insect

Ecological connections

pollinates

European honey bee

Apis mellifera

Collects nectar and pollen from its blue flowers.

eaten by

European rabbit

Oryctolagus cuniculus

Browses on its leaves and young shoots.

eats

Black bean aphid

Aphis fabae

Sucks sap from chicory stems and leaves.

Traits

Flowering

These are the plants that produce beautiful blossoms, attracting pollinators and adding splashes of color to our world. Each flower is a tiny marvel!

Summer Blooming

Enjoy the sunny days with these vibrant plants that show off their stunning flowers all through the warmest months, adding color to the long summer days.

Medicinal

Discover special plants that people have used for centuries to help them feel better or stay healthy, often found in nature's own medicine cabinet.

Agricultural

Discover plants and animals that are part of farming, grown or raised by people to provide food and other useful resources.

Edible

Find plants that are safe and delicious to eat, offering tasty treats and nourishment from nature's pantry. Always check with an adult before tasting!

Grassland

These wide-open spaces are covered in grasses, often home to grazing animals and incredible predators! Experience the vastness of the plains.

Pollinator Magnet

Discover plants that are irresistible to our pollinator friends! These beauties are super attractive to bees, butterflies, and other helpful creatures, creating a buzzing hub of activity.