Chicory - Cichorium
intybus
This frequently seen member of the Aster family (Asteraceae)
has blue, square tipped, sessile (stalkless) flowers which generally
close by noon. The stem is naked except for the blossoms, but
this species does have basal leaves similar to those of the Dandelion.
It is alien to North America, but is so common along roadsides
in Europe that in Germany it is known as Wegewart or road plant.
It was probably introduced to the new world as a hay crop.
Egyptians have eaten the basal leaves for centuries. The roasted
and ground root is often used as a coffee substitute, or added
to coffee as a flavoring.
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