The Best 20 Varieties of Chicory to Grow: Tips, Facts, and Information

Chicory (Cichorium intybus) is a versatile plant that is often grown for its leaves, roots, and flowers. The leaves can be used in salads or cooked like spinach, while the roots are sometimes roasted and ground as a coffee substitute. Known for its slightly bitter flavor and nutritional benefits, chicory is a hardy plant that thrives in cooler weather. Here’s a look at the best 20 varieties of chicory to grow, along with helpful tips and interesting facts about each.

1. Common Chicory

Facts: The most widely grown variety, known for its deep blue flowers and slightly bitter leaves.
Tips: Harvest young leaves for salads; thrives in full sun and well-drained soil.

2. Belgian Endive

Facts: A variety of chicory with tightly packed leaves that are often blanched for a milder flavor.
Tips: Requires careful growing conditions; best harvested when the heads are firm.

3. Radicchio (Chioggia)

Facts: Known for its vibrant red color and slightly spicy flavor; popular in Italian cuisine.
Tips: Best grown in cooler temperatures; harvest when heads are firm.

4. Sugarloaf Chicory

Facts: This variety produces tall, conical heads that are sweeter than other chicories.
Tips: Great for salads; best harvested when the heads are well-formed.

5. Catalogna (Italian Dandelion)

Facts: A variety with long, serrated leaves that can be used in salads or cooked dishes.
Tips: Prefers full sun and regular watering; ideal for early spring planting.

6. Puntarelle

Facts: An Italian variety known for its crisp, tender shoots; often used in salads.
Tips: Best harvested young for the best flavor; thrives in well-drained soil.

7. Endive (Curly)

Facts: This variety features frilled leaves and a slightly bitter flavor, perfect for salads.
Tips: Ideal for growing in cooler months; harvest when leaves are tender.

8. Escarole

Facts: A broad-leaved variety with a milder flavor; often used in soups and salads.
Tips: Grows well in partial shade; best harvested when leaves are young.

9. Chicory ‘Palla Rossa’

Facts: Known for its deep red color and crisp texture, this variety is a popular salad green.
Tips: Thrives in full sun; harvest when the heads are well-formed.

10. Chicory ‘Frisée’

Facts: A frilly-leafed variety known for its slightly bitter flavor; great for salads.
Tips: Prefers well-drained soil; ideal for cooler temperatures.

11. Witloof Chicory

Facts: Known for its tight, white heads; often blanched for a sweeter taste.
Tips: Requires careful growing conditions; best harvested when the heads are firm.

12. Chicory ‘Zuccherino’

Facts: A sweet variety with a high sugar content; excellent for salads and cooking.
Tips: Best harvested young for optimal sweetness; prefers well-drained soil.

13. Chicory ‘Rosso di Treviso’

Facts: This variety has elongated, red leaves and is known for its sweet flavor.
Tips: Ideal for fresh eating; grows well in sunny spots.

14. Chicory ‘Cicoria Catalogna’

Facts: Known for its large, tender leaves that are slightly bitter; great for cooking.
Tips: Requires consistent moisture; harvest when leaves are young.

15. Dandelion Chicory

Facts: A wild variety that is often foraged; known for its bitter leaves and health benefits.
Tips: Best used in salads or cooked; thrives in full sun.

16. Chicory ‘Chicory Roots’

Facts: Grown specifically for its roots, which can be roasted and ground as a coffee substitute.
Tips: Requires well-drained soil; harvest when roots are mature.

17. Chicory ‘Frizzy’

Facts: A decorative variety with frizzy leaves; often used as a garnish in culinary dishes.
Tips: Grows well in well-drained soil; ideal for decorative purposes.

18. Chicory ‘Green Curly’

Facts: This variety features green, curly leaves that add texture to salads.
Tips: Best harvested young for optimal flavor; prefers full sun.

19. Chicory ‘Cicoria di Montagna’

Facts: A mountain variety known for its robustness and rich flavor.
Tips: Thrives in cooler temperatures; ideal for home gardens.

20. Chicory ‘Winter’

Facts: A hardy variety that can withstand frost; often used in winter dishes.
Tips: Best grown in cooler months; harvest when leaves are tender.

Common Questions About Growing Chicory

Q: When is the best time to plant chicory?
A: Chicory can be planted in early spring or late summer for a fall harvest, as it prefers cooler temperatures.

Q: How much sunlight does chicory need?
A: Chicory thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade, especially in warmer climates.

Q: How do I care for chicory plants?
A: Keep the soil consistently moist and well-drained. Regularly check for pests and diseases.

Q: Can I grow chicory in containers?
A: Yes, chicory can be successfully grown in containers. Use a pot that is at least 8-10 inches deep for adequate root space.

Q: What pests should I watch for when growing chicory?
A: Common pests include aphids and caterpillars. Regular monitoring and using organic pest control methods can help manage these issues.