Scorzonera crocifolia
Scorzonera crocifolia
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Pl. FD3F — Scorzonera crocifolia
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IOverview
Overview
Scorzonera crocifolia, known as black salsify, is a perennial plant native to Greece and other parts of Central Europe including Austria, the Baltic States, Belarus, Belgium, and Czechoslovakia. This light-loving plant thrives in dry to moist conditions and prefers soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) with a pH between 5 and 5.5. It reaches a height of about 0.5 meters and is valued for its edible leaves which can be used in various culinary applications. One distinctive feature of this plant is its ability to grow in diverse soil types, making it adaptable to different environments.
Quick answers
What is Scorzonera crocifolia?
Scorzonera crocifolia, known as black salsify, is a perennial plant native to Greece and other parts of Central Europe including Austria, the Baltic States, Belarus, Belgium, and Czechoslovakia.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Scorzonera crocifolia thrives in light to medium and heavy soils with a pH of 5–5.5. It prefers dry to moist conditions and grows best in full sun or partial shade. This perennial reaches about 0.5 meters in height and is native to Greece, Austria, and several other European regions. For cultivation, ensure the soil is well-drained but retains some moisture. Propagate through seeds or division of mature plants. Given its hardiness in temperate regions, it should perform well in a variety of climates without specific zone requirements. Harvest the edible leaves for culinary use.
Light
7/10
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
0.5 m tall
Soil pH
5–5.5
For first-time growers
How to grow Scorzonera crocifolia for the first time
7steps
Start with simple soil preparation and basic care for a rewarding first-time planting experience.
- 1
What you'll need
A small trowel, seeds or seedlings, compost, and water.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late summer for best results.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a spot with well-draining soil; amend with compost if necessary. Ensure containers are at least 30 cm deep.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 1-2 cm deep, spacing them about 30 cm apart. Alternatively, transplant seedlings into the garden after they have grown a few leaves.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide consistent watering, especially during dry spells. Fertilize lightly in spring with composted manure.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune back foliage after flowering to encourage new growth and prevent self-seeding.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The leaves of Scorzonera crocifolia are edible and can be prepared in various ways. They are often used fresh or cooked, adding a mild flavor to dishes. The plant's leaves can also be dried for later use. Skip the specific preparation methods as details were not provided.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
26 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
26 native · 0 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 26 native
Europe21 regions
native (21)AustriaBelarusBelgiumDenmarkFinlandFranceGermanyGreeceHungaryItalyNetherlandsNorwayPolandPortugalRomaniaRussiaSpainSwedenSwitzerlandUkraineUnited Kingdom
Asia1 region
native (1)Turkey
Broader regions
native:Czechoslovakia, Baltic States, Yugoslavia
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · fd3fffce-c32a-4f22-8aa6-0759d43e1a71
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