Common Chicory, Blue Daisy, Blue Sailors
Kingdom: Plantae; Division: Magnoliophyta; Class: Magnoliopsida; Order: Asterales; Family: Asteraceae; Genus: Cichorium; Species: Cichorium intybus · Asteraceae (Daisy or Sunflower family) · Deciduous; the plant features basal leaves (rossette) and smaller, alternate cauline (stem) leaves.
Species
Cichorium intybus
Leaf Type
Deciduous; the plant features basal leaves (rossette) and smaller, alternate cauline (stem) leaves.
Family
Asteraceae (Daisy or Sunflower family)
Shape
Basal leaves are oblanceolate or spatulate; stem leaves are smaller, lanceolate, and sessile with amplexicaul (clasping) bases.
Size
Basal leaves are typically 3-10 inches long; the compressed flower structure shown is roughly 1.5-2 inches in diameter.
Margin
Basal leaves are runcinate (pinnately lobed or toothed); upper stem leaves have entire or slightly serrate margins.
Arrangement
Alternate on the stalk; basal leaves form a dense circular rosette from a deep taproot.
Rarity
Very Common; often considered a weed in many parts of the world due to its hardiness and ability to grow in poor soils.
Color & Pattern
Foliage is medium to dark green with a pale midrib; flowers are a distinct bright sky-blue (rarely white or pink).
Venation Pattern
Pinnate venation with a prominent, often slightly hairy light-colored midrib on the underside.
Texture & Surface
Pubescent (short, stiff hairs) particularly on the underside and along the midrib; texture is somewhat rough or coarse.
Description
A perennial herbaceous plant known for its striking blue flowers that typically open only in the morning. It grows from a large taproot and produces a stiff, branched, hairy stem that can reach up to 4 feet in height.
Key Features
Electric blue ray florets with squared-off, fringed ends; milky sap in the stems; deep, sturdy taproot; flowers often lacking pedicels (sessile).
Habitat
Found in disturbed areas, roadsides, pastures, and waste places; prefers full sun and well-drained, alkaline soils.
Geographic Range
Native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia; naturalized and very common throughout North America, Australia, and New Zealand.
Condition Notes
The specimen appears to be a pressed flower head. The rays (petals) are slightly translucent and brittle due to desiccation; overall condition is Good for a herbarium specimen.
Interesting Facts
The flowers are known as 'day sleepers' because they close by midday. Historically used as a coffee substitute and for making blue dyes. Mentioned in Virgil's 'Georgics' as a salad green.
Medicinal & Uses
Roots are roasted and ground as a caffeine-free coffee substitute or additive. Leaves are edible as a bitter green (Radicchio and Belgian Endive are cultivated varieties). Used traditionally for digestive issues.
Ecological Role
Important nectar source for bees and butterflies; the deep taproot helps with soil aeration and bringing up minerals from deeper soil layers.
Similar Species
Cornflower (Centaurea cyanus) has narrow leaves and more tubular central florets; Sow Thistles (Sonchus) have similar leaf shapes but yellow flowers.
Foraging Tips
Look along sunny roadsides in mid-to-late summer. Dig the roots in autumn for roasting; harvest young leaves in early spring before they become too bitter.
Toxicity Warning
Non-toxic to humans in moderate amounts; however, some individuals may experience contact dermatitis from the sap. Safe for most livestock but can taint milk flavor.