Growing Salsify, also Vegetable oyster

Tragopogon porrifolius : Asteraceae / the daisy family

Jan F M A M J J A S O N Dec
      P P              

(Best months for growing Salsify in USA - Zone 5a regions)

  • P = Sow seed
  • Easy to grow. Sow in garden. Sow seed at a depth approximately three times the diameter of the seed. Best planted at soil temperatures between 10°C and 30°C. (Show °F/in)
  • Space plants: 15 - 20 cm apart
  • Harvest in 14-21 weeks.
  • Compatible with (can grow beside): Beans, Brassicas, Carrots, Celeriac, Endive, Kohl-rabi, Leeks, Lettuce, Alliums, Spinach

Your comments and tips

12 May 21, Celeste Archer (Canada - Zone 7a Mild Temperate climate)
I'm from a warmer region - but I recalled something about hard freezes and salsify, so I checked the website where I purchased my seeds (RESTORATION seeds); here is some of the information from that site, where it talks about a hard freeze.... -- from their site --- The leaves of black salsify are spearhead shaped and have an excellent mild flavor improved by frost. They last past mild freezes and re-grow quickly after hard ones. They taste very much like lettuce. Come spring, they produce copius quantities of large, mild-flavored leaves long before lettuce can be planted. Late rin the summer when they bolt, your lettuce will be available. Also known as Scorzonera, Black Vegetable-oyster Plant, Serpent Root and Viper's Grass. Tags: Season: Spring Fall Winter, Seed:
23 Jan 16, Elisa Turner (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
I remember eating black salsify (Schwarz- Wurzel in Germany.) They tasted very much like Asparagus. Very nice! Why can I not buy this vegetable in Australian vegetable shops? I may try and grow black salsify in my garden in subtropical region of Australia. Should I best wait for winter's colder weather?
25 Jul 16, Asn (Australia - temperate climate)
Salsify sold in certain vegetables and fruit shops, it costs as much as $90.00 a kilo, The best way get the seeds is to buy a piece of Salsify cut the bottom part off and cook it enjoy yourself, the top part, you can plant it in the garden, wait for it to grow to flowers, harvest the seeds when the flowers dry. The best time to grow is in late August early September.
24 Dec 15, Hanna Michalzik (Australia - temperate climate)
I have just read your request for salsify seeds. I have just harvested some seeds and I am happy to give you some. I live in Kelmscott. Best regards Hanna
03 Aug 16, Fran (Australia - temperate climate)
Hi there, I realise that you offered salsify seeds quite a while ago but I am wondering if you have any I can get from you. I am willing to pay for them. Many thanks Fran
16 Jul 15, marie claire joly (Australia - temperate climate)
Where to get salsify seeds thanks
10 Aug 15, Geoff Hudson (Australia - temperate climate)
The Italian Gardener has two varieties of salsify.
17 Jul 15, Prometheus (Australia - cool/mountain climate)
I just recently came across a seed seller which I highly recommend (and they have Salsify). Check out www.boondieseeds.com.au. You're out of luck if you are in Tas or Wa though. Happy gardening!
19 Oct 14, Maria (South Africa - Summer rainfall climate)
Where can I buy Salsify seed in South Africa? I live in NW Province, Klerksdorp (City of Matlosana).
24 Jun 14, Marie Moore (Australia - tropical climate)
Where in Perth WA, Near Rockingham can I buy salsify seeds? Thanks
Showing 31 - 40 of 86 comments

I’m in Northam, Western Australia I’d love to grow salsify. Where can I get seeds. When do I plant?

- Susan parker

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This planting guide is a general reference intended for home gardeners. We recommend that you take into account your local conditions in making planting decisions. Gardenate is not a farming or commercial advisory service. For specific advice, please contact your local plant suppliers, gardening groups, or agricultural department. The information on this site is presented in good faith, but we take no responsibility as to the accuracy of the information provided.
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