Black Salsify (Black Oyster Plant/Scorzonera)

Black Salsify, also called Scorzonera and Black Oyster Plant, is a cold hardy perennial in the aster and lettuce family grown for its thin root with rough black skin over white flesh that can grow 1'-3' long if it has the room. Take care when harvesting, as the roots are delicate and snap easily.  Any root left behind will re-grow!

It would be fun for a blind taste test, as the edible yellow dandelion-like flower petals smell like cocoa, the edible flower buds taste like okra, and the roots taste like oyster, asparagus, or artichoke, turning sweeter and earthier after a frost.

The stems and long, wide leaves that can grow 3'-4' tall are also edible. Delicious roasted, mashed, grilled, and pickled, or simply sautéed in a little butter for a rich, unusual side dish.

• Sweet, earthy flavor
• Roots can grow 1'-3' long if they have the room!
• Prefers cooler weather
• All parts are edible
• Cold hardy

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Scorzonera hispanica
• Life cycle: Herbaceous perennial
• Hardiness zones: 5-9
• Planting season: Spring, fall
• Days to maturity: 100-120 days
• Depth to plant seeds: 1/2" deep
• Days to germinate (sprout): 7-28 days
• Germination soil temps: 60F-75F
• Spacing between plants: 3"-4" apart
• Spacing between rows: 18"-24" apart
• # of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 16 plants per sq. ft.
• Soil types: Sandy, loamy, moist, well-drained
• Soil pH: 6.5-7.0
• Sun needs: Full sun
• Water needs: Average
• Cold stratify: No
• Frost tolerant: Yes
• Heat tolerant: Yes
• Drought tolerant: Yes
• Deer resistant: No
• Culinary use: Yes

Good Companion Plants: Beet, Carrot, Kohlrabi, Parsnip, Potato, Rosemary, Rutabaga, Sage, Thyme, Turnip

⚠️ Always consult with your doctor and primary care provider before using or consuming herbs, flowers, seeds and/or plants for medicinal purposes.