Coastal BC Plants: Wild Chicory

Wild Chicory

Along the roads and trails right now there are some beautiful flowers reflecting the hue of the summer blue skies.

I stopped to take some pictures of the Wild Chicory plants. I even captured a buzzing bee gathering a bit of nectar.

I did some research and learned that Chicory (Cichorium intybus) is a perennial herb that is native to Europe and the Middle East. It was later introduced to North America and has now become "naturalized" to our locale.

I've heard about Chicory from my parents who had to drink it as a coffee substitute during World War II, but I never made the connection to this lovely flower, or the fact that it is related to cultivated versions such as Belgian endive and radicchio.

So if you are out walking or hiking, keep an eye out for this lovely blue flower. -- Margy