Chicory (Cichorium intybus) is a hardy perennial herb prized for its vibrant blue flowers, edible leaves, and roots. Known as Blue Daisy, Blue Sailors, Coffeeweed, or Succory, this versatile plant is perfect for herb and flower gardens, ornamental borders, and culinary applications.

Chicory thrives in full sun with well-drained soil and attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies. Its roots can be roasted as a coffee substitute, while the young leaves are delicious in salads and cooked dishes. Easy to grow and maintain, Chicory is a valuable addition to any garden.

Features

• Premium Non-GMO Cichorium intybus seeds
• Produces vivid blue flowers and edible leaves and roots
• Dual-purpose for ornamental and culinary uses
• Attracts pollinators including bees and butterflies
• Hardy, drought-tolerant, and low-maintenance
• Ideal for flower beds, borders, herb gardens, and containers
• Roots can be roasted for coffee-like flavor

Specifications

• Scientific Name: Cichorium intybus
• Common Name (US): Chicory, Blue Daisy, Blue Sailors, Coffeeweed, Succory
• Plant Type: Perennial herb
• Flower Color: Bright blue, daisy-like
• Foliage: Green, edible leaves
• Height: 24–48 inches (60–120 cm)
• Spread: 12–24 inches (30–60 cm)
• Bloom Season: Summer to early fall
• Light Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Type: Well-drained, fertile soil
• Soil pH: 6.0–7.5
• Watering Needs: Moderate; drought-tolerant once established
• Temperature Range: 60–85°F (16–29°C)
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4–9
• Days to Germination: 10–21 days
• Seed Depth: ¼–½ inch (0.6–1.3 cm)
• Plant Spacing: 12–18 inches (30–45 cm)
• Life Cycle: Perennial
• Pollinator Friendly: Yes
• GMO Status: Non-GMO
• Maintenance Level: Easy
• Uses: Ornamental gardens, edible leaves and roots, roasted root coffee, flower borders, container planting, pollinator-friendly gardens

Planting Guide

• When to Sow: Sow indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost or directly outdoors after frost.
• Seed Depth: Cover seeds ¼–½ inch with soil.
• Germination: Maintain soil at 65–75°F (18–24°C); germination occurs in 10–21 days.
• Light: Full sun for best growth and vibrant flowers.
• Watering: Keep soil evenly moist during germination; reduce slightly after establishment.
• Harvesting: Young leaves for salads; roots can be harvested in fall for roasting.
• Maintenance: Deadhead flowers to encourage longer blooming; thin seedlings for proper growth.