Chicory vs Chrysanthemums: Unmasking the Differences

Chicory, the above-ground part of the plant from the daisy family, produces small cyan flowers that resemble lotus blooms, which are very pleasing to the eye. Are chicory and chrysanthemums the same?

The names of chicory and chrysanthemums differ by only one character, so many people tend to confuse them. However, chicory and chrysanthemums are entirely different plants, with differences in their families, heights, flower colors, and effects. Let’s understand more about chicory.

I. What is Chicory?

Chicory, also known as endive, bitter endive, kasni, curly endive, eye-brightening vegetable, coffee radish, or coffee grass, is a perennial herbaceous plant from the daisy family. It has a fleshy, short, and stout root.

The stem is erect, angular, hollow, and highly branched. Leaves are alternately arranged, lanceolate, with a head-shaped inflorescence, and the corolla is tongue-shaped with a cyan color.

Chicory is a medicinal and edible plant. Its leaves can be used in salads, and its root contains inulin and aromatic substances, which can be used to make a coffee substitute, promoting the activity of the human digestive organs.

The above-ground part and root of the plant can be used medicinally. In traditional Chinese medicine, it is known as chicory or chicory root, having the effects of clearing heat and detoxifying, diuresis and reducing swelling, and strengthening the stomach.

This plant is cold and drought-tolerant and thrives in well-lit fields and slopes. It is distributed in China and other countries.

II. Are Chicory and Chrysanthemums the Same?

Chicory is not the same as chrysanthemums, and they differ in the following ways:

1. Family and Genus Differences

Although both chicory and chrysanthemums belong to the daisy family, chicory belongs to the Cichorium genus, while chrysanthemums belong to the Chrysanthemum genus. Therefore, they are from the same family but different genera.

2. Height Differences

Both chicory and chrysanthemums are perennial herbs, but chicory typically ranges from 40-100cm in height, while chrysanthemums generally range from 60-150cm in height, with some varieties growing up to 200cm tall.

3. Flower Color Differences

Chicory flowers are generally blue, while chrysanthemums come in many colors, including red, yellow, black, and more.

4. Effect Differences

Chicory is often used in traditional Chinese medicine to lower uric acid levels and improve gout, while chrysanthemums can serve as potted plants for ornamental purposes or be used to make tea that clears heat and detoxifies the body. Therefore, these two plants should not be confused with each other.