Cichorium intybus
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Common Name: chicory
Type: Herbaceous perennial
Family: Asteraceae
Zone: 4 to 8
Native Range: Europe, western Asia, northern Africa
Height: 0.5 to 1 feet
Spread: 0.5 to 1 feet
Bloom Time: Flowers not showy
Bloom Color: 
Bloom Description: 
Sun: Full sun
Water: Medium
Maintenance: Medium
Leaves: Colorful
Uses: Vegetable, Suitable as Annual

Culture

Soil should be well-drained, with ample organic matter and a pH of 7 or above. Moisture should be available at all times. Best results are obtained in cool and mild weather, with nights below 60 degrees F. For early planting, seed in peat pots or plug trays and transplant outside in two or three weeks. Floating row covers protect against pests and frosts. Set out transplants 8” apart with 18” between rows.

Noteworthy Characteristics

This chicory is gaining popularity as an important component of spring salads. Newer varieties can be harvested within 60 days from transplanting.

Problems

Similar to lettuce: snails, slugs, and cutworms can be a problem.

Garden Uses

Salads.

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