Chicory near Avenue of the Giants
Chicory (Cichorium intybus) is the plant that everybody's heard about but as a matter of fact it is quite rare, at least in places where I've lived. It is a recognizable plant: it has tall stem, about 5 feet high and several flowers along the stalk. Their location is very unusual. The color of flowers is light blue. Notice the petals have serrated outer edge.
Chicory flower
The stem did not have flowers all over. Some were were still buds, especially the upper part of the stem.
Close-up of the stem with buds
Chicory gave its name to the whole tribe within Aster family. Like other plants of this family, the roots are edible. They can be made in a coffee substitute.
I have always wondered what chicory looked like. If coffee prices keep going up I may switch to dried chicory root!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the good information and the clear photos.