plant

Chicory

Cichorium intybus

Updated 4 Aug 2026 · AI-parsed entry

Chicory (Cichorium intybus) — a plant, for Full sun, Medium water.

What it needs & gives back

↓ Needs

Lightfull sun to partial shade
Watermoderate

↑ Gives back

Mulch_biomassmedium

Through the year

Through the year

JFMAMJJASOND
emergenceChicory emerges from the soil after the last spring frost, once soil temperatures consistently reach 5°C.
floweringFlowering is primarily triggered by lengthening photoperiods and warm air temperatures, typically occurring in mid-summer.
fruitingFruiting follows flowering, with seeds developing over approximately 45 days.
harvestRoots are typically harvested in late autumn, often in September or October, after the plant has stored energy.
senescenceAbove-ground parts of chicory senesce with the first autumn frosts.
dormancyChicory enters root dormancy after senescence of above-ground parts, lasting through winter.

Soil interactions

Drainagewell-drained
Nitrogen fixingNo
MycorrhizalYes
Accumulatespotassium, calcium, magnesium
Soil textureloam, clay, sand
Organic matterMedium
Compaction toleranceMedium

Propagation

Methodsseed, root_division
Difficulty2 / 5
Establishes in~1 yr
Stratificationcold_moist
Self-seedingModerate
Divisionspring

Wildlife & pests

Attractsbees, butterflies, beneficial insects