Overview
Cichorium intybus is a perennial herb in the genus Cichorium, part of the Asteraceae family, with deciduous foliage. Cichorium intybus grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is native to W Euras. and N Africa.
About
Cichorium intybus is a perennial herb in the Asteraceae, notable for its bright blue flowerheads. It has deciduous leaves and flowers in summer. Native to western Eurasia and North Africa, it favours open, sunny positions and reliably appears each year.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Chicory
About the genus
Cichorium is a genus of plants in the tribe Cichorieae within the family Asteraceae. The genus includes two cultivated species commonly known as chicory or endive, plus several wild species.
Wikipedia contributors, "Cichorium", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Cichorium
In the garden
Cichorium intybus is a perennial herb of the Asteraceae, native to western Eurasia and North Africa, most readily recognised for its bright blue summer flowers. In the UK it blooms from July to September and the foliage dies back after the flowering season. Grow chicory in full sun on soils that range from sandy through loamy to clay, provided they remain moist but well drained; avoid waterlogged sites. It is rated H7, meaning it is fully hardy in UK gardens, and it is also listed for USDA zones 3–7. Position plants where they receive uninterrupted sun through the day to support regular flowering. In garden use, chicory suits informal herbaceous margins, meadow mixes and sunny bank plantings where its blue flowerheads will read well against grasses and paler perennials. Give it a free-draining spot with steady moisture and it will perform without winter protection. Expect the characteristic bright blue flowerheads to appear from July to September.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Cichorium
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy, Clay
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Cichorium intybus size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Perennial herb
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Native to
- W Euras., N Africa
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Cichorium intybus
- Propagation
- Seed
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Cichorium intybus?
Cichorium intybus prefers full sun.
What soil does Cichorium intybus need?
Cichorium intybus is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Cichorium intybus hardy in the UK?
Cichorium intybus has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Cichorium intybus?
Seed.
