Chicory

Chicory is a hardy, deep-rooted plant known for its sky-blue flowers and edible leaves and roots. It prefers full sun and tolerates poor soil, making it an excellent choice for drought-prone areas. The young leaves have a slightly bitter, nutty taste, often used in salads or cooked as greens. Chicory roots can be roasted and ground into a caffeine-free coffee substitute, a tradition that dates back centuries in Europe and North America.