Scorzonera (Scorzonera hispanica)

Family: Asteraceae or Compositae | Edibility: Choice Edible (4/5)

Scorzonera hispanica is a PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from June to September, and the seeds ripen from July to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Roots/Tubers, Flowers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

sweet agreeable flavour. — A sweet agreeable flavour.; The root is usually eaten at the end of its first year of growth, but it can be grown on for a second year without becoming tough.; The root is rich in inulin - this is a starch that is not easily digested by humans and so generally passes straight through the digestive system and is excreted.; Inulin can cause flatulence in some people.

Habitat & North American Range

Cultivated ground, rocks and bushy places. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)