Day 293: You've probably heard it said that a weed is just a wildflower nobody wants, and while that may hold true for things like dandelions and tansy, sometimes a weed worms its way into your heart despite your best efforts to eradicate it. That's the relationship I have with Cichorium intybus, also known as Chickory or Wild Succory. It is an introduced species, having been brought to North America from Europe, and is seen commonly on waste land where its sturdy roots demonstrate their ability penetrate hard-packed soils with an enviable determination. The stems and foliage are tough and wiry and not particularly attractive, but when it flowers, it paints vacant lots and roadsides with a beautiful, sky-blue brush you cannot help but admire. It is only moderately invasive, unlike the Centaurea complex which would take over the world given half a chance, a factor which (forgive me) I feel tips the balance to the favour of its aesthetic appeal. It's my favourite weed.
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