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Chickory. Succory

Cichorium Intybus. Composite Family. Stems.--Branching. Leaves.--The lower oblong or lance--shaped, partly clasping, sometimes sharply incised; the floral ones minute. Flower-heads.--Blue; set close to the stem; composed entirely of strap-shaped flowers; opening at different times. "Oh, not in Ladies' gardens, My peasant posy! Smile thy dear blue eyes, Nor only--nearer to the skies-- In upland pastures, dim and sweet,-- But by the dusty road Where tired feet Toil to and fro; Where flaunting Sin May see thy heavenly hue, Or weary Sorrow look from thee Toward a more tender blue." (Margaret Deland.) This roadside weed blossoms in late summer. It is extensively cultivated in France, where the leaves are blanched and used in a salad which is called "Barbe des Capucins." The roots are roasted and mixed with coffee both there and in England.

Horace mentions its leaves as part of his frugal fare, and Pliny remarks upon the importance of the plant to the Egyptians, who formerly used it in great quantities, and of whose diet it is still a staple article.