Contents
Description
Cichorium Intybus, commonly known as chicory, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to Europe, but it has been naturalized in many other parts of the world, including North America. Chicory is widely cultivated for its edible leaves and roots, which are used in various culinary dishes and beverages.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Cichorium |
Appearance
Chicory has a deep taproot and a rosette of lance-shaped leaves that can grow up to 30 cm long. The leaves are dark green and have a slightly bitter taste. The plant produces blue, lavender, or white flowers that bloom from July to September. The flowers are arranged in clusters and have a diameter of about 2 cm. The plant can grow up to 1.5 meters tall.
Care Guide
Chicory is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Chicory prefers well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant regularly, especially during dry spells.
- Fertilization: Chicory does not require much fertilization, but you can add compost or a balanced fertilizer in the spring to promote growth.
- Soil: Chicory prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in most soil types, but it performs best in loamy or sandy soil.
- Sunlight: Chicory prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Chicory can grow in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Chicory is relatively pest and disease resistant, but it can be affected by the following:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap out of the leaves and cause them to curl.
- Slugs and snails: These pests can eat the leaves and damage the plant.
- Rust: This fungal disease can cause orange or brown spots on the leaves.
- Leaf spot: This bacterial disease can cause brown or black spots on the leaves and stems.
Habitat
Chicory can grow in a variety of habitats, including fields, roadsides, and waste areas. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is chicory easy to grow?
A: Yes, chicory is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. It is relatively easy to grow.
Q: Can you eat chicory leaves?
A: Yes, chicory leaves are edible and have a slightly bitter taste. They can be used in salads or cooked like spinach.
Q: What is chicory root used for?
A: Chicory root is used as a coffee substitute and flavoring agent. It is also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.
Q: Does chicory have any nutritional value?
A: Yes, chicory is a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is low in calories and carbohydrates.
Related Plants
- Endive (Cichorium endivia)
- Radicchio (Cichorium intybus var. foliosum)
- Witloof chicory (Cichorium intybus var. foliosum)
References
- “Cichorium intybus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 31, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286629&isprofile=0.
- “Chicory.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 31, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/14659/Cichorium-intybus/Details.
- “Chicory (Cichorium intybus).” Plants for a Future. Accessed August 31, 2021. https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Cichorium+intybus.
