6000 Chicory Seeds, Cichorium intybus, Heirloom Edible Greens & Root Herb

Chicory (Cichorium intybus) is a versatile heirloom plant grown for its edible leaves and roots. This hardy perennial, often cultivated as an annual, produces bright blue flowers in summer and is a valuable addition to vegetable gardens, herb gardens, and wildlife-friendly landscapes. The young leaves can be used as a mildly bitter salad green, while the roots can be roasted and used as a coffee substitute or added to soups and stews.

With 6000 seeds, this packet offers plenty of growing potential for gardeners interested in self-sufficiency, edible landscaping, or simply enjoying a unique and useful plant. Chicory is easy to grow from seed and adapts well to a range of conditions, making it a reliable choice for both beginners and experienced growers.

Plant Features

• Heirloom variety with edible leaves and roots
• Produces attractive blue flowers that attract pollinators
• Hardy and adaptable, suitable for various garden settings
• Can be grown as an annual or perennial depending on climate
• Dual-purpose plant: ornamental and culinary

Growing Information

• Botanical Name: Cichorium intybus
• Plant Type: Perennial often grown as annual
• Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Well-drained, loamy soil
• Water Requirements: Moderate; keep soil evenly moist
• Growth Habit: Upright rosette with flowering stems
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-10
• Bloom Season: Summer
• Mature Height: 2-4 feet
• Germination Requirements: Sow seeds directly or start indoors; light needed for germination
• Spacing: 12-18 inches apart

Planting & Care

Sow chicory seeds outdoors in early spring or fall, barely covering them with soil as they need light to germinate. Keep the seedbed consistently moist until seedlings emerge. Thin seedlings to the recommended spacing to allow for healthy growth. Chicory tolerates a range of soils but performs best in well-drained, fertile ground. Water regularly during dry spells, especially when growing for tender leaves.

For root production, allow plants to grow undisturbed until late autumn, then harvest as needed. Chicory can be left in the ground over winter in milder climates, or roots can be lifted and stored. The flowers are attractive to beneficial insects, so consider leaving a few plants to bloom for added garden biodiversity.

What's Included

6000 Chicory seeds (Cichorium intybus).