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Black Salsify (Black Oyster Plant/Scorzonera)

$299 USD
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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.

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