EPPO Global Database

• EPPO Code: CICIN
• Preferred name: Cichorium intybus
• Authority: Linnaeus

Native to Euromediterranean region, Caucasus, Central Asia, Western Asia (Iraq to Pakistan).

The wild form of C. intybus is a widespread weed. Cultivated for its roots, which can be ground to give a coffee substitute, or for medicinal purposes. The root can also be germinated in the dark to give swollen white shoots, used as a salad vegetable.

It should be noted that the common names of the salad Cichorium spp. in European languages are contradictory, thus "chicory " in English is "endive" in French, and vice versa. See also C. endivia.