Chicory

Chicory is a perennial herb that is native to the Mediterranean. Throughout the state of Oregon this flower can be found growing in ditches alongside the road. Often it will grow in a similar fashion to weeds. In the first year of its cycle you will only see plant growth, by the second year it will come into full bloom. Chicory should be planted in full sun. It can be grown for its leaves, which are often used in salads. The roots are used to make ‘Chicory Coffee’, which is a coffee substitute. This is a very drought tolerant herb that has a deep taproot. Planting should be done two to three weeks before the last frost.