Mollis Viper's Grass (Scorzonera mollis)

Family: Asteraceae or Compositae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Scorzonera mollis is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from June to July. 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. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Roots/Tubers, Flowers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Root - cooked. Leaves - cooked. Flowers - raw. The flowers have a scent of chocolate. — The flowers have a scent of chocolate.

Habitat & North American Range

Rocky places in S. Europe. Meadows and pine forests, 30 - 2650 metres in Turkey. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)