CHICORY, WILD (Cichorium intybus)

20cm bare- root super-plug (perennial)

Wild Chicory (Cichorium intybus) is a stunning native wildflower that brings vibrant colour to meadows, field margins and roadside verges with its striking sky-blue flowers. Blooming from July through to October, its daisy-like flowers open in the morning sunshine and attract attention from both people and pollinators. Wild Chicory thrives in full sun and well-drained soils, particularly on chalky, limestone or sandy ground, and its deep taproot allows it to withstand periods of drought once established.

An excellent plant for wildlife, Wild Chicory produces a valuable source of nectar and pollen during late summer when many other wildflowers are beginning to fade. Bees, hoverflies and butterflies are frequent visitors, including species such as the Small White, Meadow Brown and Painted Lady. Its long flowering season helps sustain pollinating insects well into autumn, making it an important component of species-rich grasslands and wildlife-friendly gardens.

The sturdy stems and abundant flowers support a wide range of beneficial insects, contributing to overall biodiversity. The seeds may also be taken by finches and other small birds later in the season, while the plant's robust growth provides structure and shelter for numerous invertebrates. Although not widely recognised as a major larval food plant for butterflies, its value as a nectar source makes it one of the most useful late-season wildflowers for pollinators.

For gardeners, meadow creators and wildlife enthusiasts, Wild Chicory offers both ornamental appeal and exceptional ecological benefits. Its tall stems and brilliant blue flowers create eye-catching displays within wildflower plantings, while its tolerance of poor soils and dry conditions makes it easy to grow in challenging locations. Elegant, resilient and highly attractive to insects, Wild Chicory is an outstanding choice for creating colourful, pollinator-friendly landscapes.