Salsify (Tragopogon porrifolius)

Family: Asteraceae or Compositae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Tragopogon porrifolius is a BIENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from June to August, 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, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in heavy clay soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds, Leaves, Shoots, Roots/Tubers, Flowers

Harvest Seasons: Spring, Early Summer, Late Summer, Fall, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

flavour is mild and sweet, and is said to resemble oysters. — Root - raw or cooked.; The young root can be grated in salads, older roots are best cooked.; The flavour is mild and sweet, and is said to resemble oysters.; The roots are harvested as required from October until early spring, or can be harvested in late autumn and stored until required.

Habitat & North American Range

Found near the sea and estuaries in S.E. England. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)