Chicory (Cichorium intybus L.)

Chicory is originally from Eurasia. It has blue flowers and grows between 0.3 and 1.8 metres. The leaves are long, lance-shaped and toothed. It flowers from July to September.

LRISS Category: STRATEGIC CONTROL

Habitat & Ecology

Chicory, like most invasives, prefers roadsides, fields and disturbed areas. It is often found along highway right-of ways. It can grow on many different soil types but is found on soils with high lime.

Impacts

It has a milky latex that may cause dermatitis for humans. It can invade disturbed areas and native plant communities.

Management

Mechanical treatment can be effective because it reproduces only by seed. Hand-pulling, digging and mowing is best for small infestations and must be completed before seed sets. Contact LRISS for more treatment information.

References

Province of British Columbia. 2002. A Guide to Weeds in British Columbia.