Scorzonera crocifolia — Edible Plant

Summary

Scorzonera crocifolia is a perennial reaching 0.5 m (1 ft 8 in) in height. The species is hermaphroditic and insect-pollinated. It adapts to light sandy, medium loamy, and heavy clay soils with good drainage. Suitable pH ranges from mildly acidic to basic. Full sun exposure is necessary, and the plant tolerates both dry and moist soils.

Description

Scorzonera crocifolia is a perennial reaching 0.5 m (1 ft 8 in) in height. The species is hermaphroditic and insect-pollinated. It adapts to light sandy, medium loamy, and heavy clay soils with good drainage. Suitable pH ranges from mildly acidic to basic. Full sun exposure is necessary, and the plant tolerates both dry and moist soils.

Edible Uses

The leaves can be eaten raw in salads or cooked like spinach.

Traditional Uses

The leaves are used in salads.

This uses section is brief — help expand it

Medicinal Uses

None known.

Distribution

It is a Mediterranean climate plant.

Where It Grows

Aegean, Europe, Greece, Mediterranean,

Cultivation

We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in most parts of the country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Succeeds in any soil in sun or light shade.

Propagation

Sow seed in spring in a greenhouse, pricking out seedlings into relatively deep pots as soon as they are large enough to handle, to accommodate the taproot. If growth is strong, plant out in early summer; otherwise overwinter in the greenhouse and plant out in late spring the following year. Divide in autumn or as growth begins in spring. Larger divisions can go straight into permanent positions. Smaller divisions are best potted up and grown on in a lightly shaded cold frame, then planted out once well established in summer.

Other Uses

None known.

References (2)

Hedrick, U.P., 1919, (Ed.), Sturtevant's edible plants of the world. p 600
Plants for a Future database, The Field, Penpol, Lostwithiel, Cornwall, PL22 0NG, UK. http://www.scs.leeds.ac.uk/pfaf/