Chicory is a hardy perennial wildflower known for its tall stems and vibrant sky-blue flowers that open in the morning sun. Native to the UK and Europe, Chicory is a favourite in wildflower meadows, road verges, and conservation schemes due to its long flowering period and ability to thrive in poor, dry soils. It is particularly valued for its high nectar content, attracting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators throughout the summer.
Its deep taproot makes it drought-tolerant and helps break up compacted soil, improving soil structure over time. This makes Chicory a dual-purpose species – a striking wildflower with ecological and environmental benefits. It works well in low-maintenance meadows, pollinator corridors, rewilding projects, and along sunny banks and slopes.
Features & Benefits
Beautiful sky-blue flowers on tall, upright stems
Excellent for attracting bees, butterflies, and hoverflies
Drought-tolerant and ideal for poor soils
Improves soil structure with deep taproots
Suitable for wildflower meadows, verges, and rewilding
Latin Name:
Cichorium intybus
Flowering Time:
June – September
Flowering Height:
60 – 150 cm
Life Cycle:
Perennial
Wildflower Seed Approximate Sowing Rate:
4.5kg per acre (11.12kg per hectare)
Sowing Times:
Spring (March – May) or Autumn (September – October)
How to Sow & Preparation
Select a sunny site with well-drained or poor soil – ideal for Chicory.
Remove weeds and prepare a fine, crumbly soil surface (tilth).
Broadcast seeds evenly without burying deeply.
Firm seeds into the soil with a roller or by lightly treading.
Water gently during dry periods to help establishment.
Expect flowering from the second year onward as roots develop.
About John Chambers Wildflower Seeds
John Chambers Wildflower Seeds has supplied premium-quality native British wildflower seed for over 35 years. Recognised as a trusted partner for landscape architects, councils, gardeners, and contractors, the brand is committed to restoring biodiversity and supporting pollinator-friendly spaces across the UK. All seed is carefully sourced and selected for UK conditions, helping to create thriving natural landscapes with lasting ecological impact.

Attribute Detail
Latin Name Cichorium intybus
Flowering Time June – September
Flowering Height 60 – 150 cm
Life Cycle Perennial
Sowing Rate 3.75kg per acre (9.26kg per hectare)
Sowing Period Spring or Autumn
Preferred Conditions Full sun, dry or poor soils
Pollinator Friendly Yes
Minimum Order Quantity 100g
Suitable For Road verges, wildflower meadows, slopes, conservation, rewilding, soil improvement projects