When chicory first emerges, it is not noticed, unobvious with the surge of spring growth, and unremarkable in early stages.   It is only when the flowers appear that we stop to notice the weedy-looking plant.   In tight clusters chicory can make an attractive display, but it is often unsightly afterward.  

• Cichorium intybus is a taprooted perennial in the aster family that grows from 30 to 175 cm tall.
• Stiff and hairy tall stems are usually branched.
• Basal leaves are toothed/lobed. Some small leaves may be found on the stem.
• Composite sky-blue flowers are quite striking on a weedy-looking herb.
• Flowers open in the sun and close at night.
• All photos taken by the author. Click for a caption (month and location) and for a larger (lightbox) image.

• Commonly found on road sides, in disturbed areas, on dry hillsides, and in dry open spots in the grasslands.
• Chicory can be cultivated in the vegetable garden where it is called Belgian endive.
• The leaves are used as salad greens and the roots are roasted as a coffee substitute.
• Belgian endive is sometimes added to soups or stews.
• We hope to cultivate it in our garden next year and we will collect seed for future plantings.