Dandelion, Italian Chicory
Cichorium intybus
Description: Italian Chicory Dandelion is a hardy, fast-growing perennial celebrated for its upright, serrated leaves and delicate blue flowers. While not a true dandelion, its robust flavor and versatility make it a popular addition to culinary and medicinal gardens. Perfect for salads, sautés, and teas, this leafy green is as nutritious as it is easy to grow.
Wildlife Benefits: The pale blue flowers attract pollinators, including bees and butterflies, contributing to a thriving garden ecosystem.
Medicinal Benefits: Traditionally valued for its detoxifying properties, Italian Chicory Dandelion supports liver health, digestion, and immunity. Its leaves and roots are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The roots can be roasted and ground to create a caffeine-free coffee substitute.
Native Status: Native to Europe and naturalized in the United States, this chicory variety thrives in Georgia’s climate, particularly in cooler seasons.
Pollinator Friendliness: The blooms are a reliable nectar source for pollinators, making this plant a beneficial addition to pollinator-friendly gardens.
Planting Guidelines:
Height: 12–24 inches
Spacing: 12–18 inches
Sun/Shade: Prefers Full Sun but tolerates Partial Shade
How to Grow: Italian Chicory Dandelion thrives in well-drained soil with consistent watering. It prefers cool weather, making it ideal for spring and fall planting in Georgia. Harvest leaves regularly to encourage new growth, or let the plant flower for pollinators and seed-saving.
Add bold flavor, health benefits, and pollinator support to your garden with Italian Chicory Dandelion—a versatile and nutritious green that’s as functional as it is beautiful.
Available in 2.5 inch and 4.25 inch (quart) pots.
Cichorium intybus
Description: Italian Chicory Dandelion is a hardy, fast-growing perennial celebrated for its upright, serrated leaves and delicate blue flowers. While not a true dandelion, its robust flavor and versatility make it a popular addition to culinary and medicinal gardens. Perfect for salads, sautés, and teas, this leafy green is as nutritious as it is easy to grow.
Wildlife Benefits: The pale blue flowers attract pollinators, including bees and butterflies, contributing to a thriving garden ecosystem.
Medicinal Benefits: Traditionally valued for its detoxifying properties, Italian Chicory Dandelion supports liver health, digestion, and immunity. Its leaves and roots are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The roots can be roasted and ground to create a caffeine-free coffee substitute.
Native Status: Native to Europe and naturalized in the United States, this chicory variety thrives in Georgia’s climate, particularly in cooler seasons.
Pollinator Friendliness: The blooms are a reliable nectar source for pollinators, making this plant a beneficial addition to pollinator-friendly gardens.
Planting Guidelines:
Height: 12–24 inches
Spacing: 12–18 inches
Sun/Shade: Prefers Full Sun but tolerates Partial Shade
How to Grow: Italian Chicory Dandelion thrives in well-drained soil with consistent watering. It prefers cool weather, making it ideal for spring and fall planting in Georgia. Harvest leaves regularly to encourage new growth, or let the plant flower for pollinators and seed-saving.
Add bold flavor, health benefits, and pollinator support to your garden with Italian Chicory Dandelion—a versatile and nutritious green that’s as functional as it is beautiful.
Available in 2.5 inch and 4.25 inch (quart) pots.
Cichorium intybus
Description: Italian Chicory Dandelion is a hardy, fast-growing perennial celebrated for its upright, serrated leaves and delicate blue flowers. While not a true dandelion, its robust flavor and versatility make it a popular addition to culinary and medicinal gardens. Perfect for salads, sautés, and teas, this leafy green is as nutritious as it is easy to grow.
Wildlife Benefits: The pale blue flowers attract pollinators, including bees and butterflies, contributing to a thriving garden ecosystem.
Medicinal Benefits: Traditionally valued for its detoxifying properties, Italian Chicory Dandelion supports liver health, digestion, and immunity. Its leaves and roots are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The roots can be roasted and ground to create a caffeine-free coffee substitute.
Native Status: Native to Europe and naturalized in the United States, this chicory variety thrives in Georgia’s climate, particularly in cooler seasons.
Pollinator Friendliness: The blooms are a reliable nectar source for pollinators, making this plant a beneficial addition to pollinator-friendly gardens.
Planting Guidelines:
Height: 12–24 inches
Spacing: 12–18 inches
Sun/Shade: Prefers Full Sun but tolerates Partial Shade
How to Grow: Italian Chicory Dandelion thrives in well-drained soil with consistent watering. It prefers cool weather, making it ideal for spring and fall planting in Georgia. Harvest leaves regularly to encourage new growth, or let the plant flower for pollinators and seed-saving.
Add bold flavor, health benefits, and pollinator support to your garden with Italian Chicory Dandelion—a versatile and nutritious green that’s as functional as it is beautiful.
Available in 2.5 inch and 4.25 inch (quart) pots.