Chicory

Cichorium intybus L.

Asteraceae (Aster Family)

▲ ▼ young rosettes

▲ ▼ mature rosette

▲ plant initiating flowering

▲ ▼ flowering plants

▲ ▼ closer view of inflorescences/flowers

▲ flower

Cichorium intybus L., Chicory: (Bayer Code: CICIN; US Code CIIN)

Simple perennial with large tap-root native to Europe
Native to Europe; roots used as coffee substitute or additive
Forms a basal rosette of leaves almost identical to dandelion leaves (lanceolate, with deep angular teeth), except usually more reddish than dandelion
Leaves of plant are eaten as one type of endive
Has bright blue flowers on 1-3' stalk that are open only in the morning or on very overcast days
Spreads readily by seed; found commonly on roadsides and in fields and pastures--is not toxic for grazing animals

(Updated January 23, 2019)