Chicory

Cichorium intybus

Versatile perennial used for forced blanched chicons (witloof), open-headed leaves (radicchio), or roasted root coffee substitute.

Hardiness ratings

Chicory hardiness across the four zone systems
SystemRatingTemperature rangeHow to read it
USDA hardiness zone Zone 3–9 −40 °C to −1.1 °C Plant tolerates down to this zone
RHS hardiness rating H7 down to −20 °C Plant needs at least this level of cold tolerance
Canadian plant hardiness zone Zone 3–9 −34 °C and warmer Plant tolerates down to this zone
Australian (ANBG) zone Zone 1–5 −15 °C to 10 °C Plant tolerates down to this zone

Growing notes

  • Deep taproot makes it an excellent dynamic accumulator and soil-conditioner cover crop
  • Forcing chicons requires lifting roots, trimming, and re-burying in dark moist conditions
  • Always consult a qualified medical or herbal practitioner before medicinal use.

Categories

Related plants

Cross-check Chicory against your zones

Reference

Chicory on Wikipedia