Etymology: Cichorium: Latinized version of an Arabic name for one species of this genus from the Greek kichore, which usually carries a common name of chicory or endive
Plants: erect, perennial, 1'-6' tall forb with milky juice; stems widely branched; long taproot
Leaves: alternate, entire to pinnately-divided, becoming smaller toward the top
Flowers: head up to 1 1/2" wide with many blue to white rays, no disk; inflorescence of 1-3 widely spaced heads from upper leaf axils; blooms July-Oct.
Fruits: dry, smooth seed without a fluffy pappus
Habitat: disturbed sites, roadsides
Invasiveness: Invasive - Eradicate!
Conservation Status: Introduced - naturalized; ecologically invasive

Flora of North America: Flora of North America WIS DNR-Bureau of Endangered Resources: Detailed information on Wisconsin invasive species including decription, habitats, control methods USDA Plants Database: Federal Distribution and detailed information including photos USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS): Images of seeds, fruits, embryos, etc. Dan Tenaglia's The Missouri Flora: Fabulous photographs; detailed descriptions; color and leave arrangement key. Dan Tenaglia's The Missouri Flora: Fabulous photographs; detailed descriptions; color and leave arrangement key. David G. Smith's "Delaware Wilflowers": Beautiful photographs; descriptions Illinois Wildflowers: Wonderful photographs; detailed descriptions; color and leaf arrangement key Southwest School of Botanical Medicine: Britton & Brown Illustrated Flora - 2nd Edition (1913) "An Illustrated Flora of the Northern United States and Canada"