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Salsify

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description Salsify Overview

Salsify is a common name for several flowering plants in the genus Tragopogon, part of the daisy family, Asteraceae. Species such as common salsify were cultivated in Europe for their edible taproots, while related plants have become naturalized in North America. Their flower heads resemble dandelions, and mature seed heads form pale, spherical globes that help identify them in meadows and other open habitats.

help Salsify FAQ

What plant is commonly called salsify?

Salsify is a common name for flowering plants in the genus Tragopogon, which belongs to the daisy family, Asteraceae. Common salsify is Tragopogon porrifolius, while the related black salsify is Scorzonera hispanica.

Can you eat salsify?

Yes, the cultivated root of common salsify is edible and was grown as a vegetable in Europe. It is often peeled and cooked, with a mild flavor sometimes compared with oysters or artichoke.

What do salsify flowers look like?

Common salsify has a daisy-like purple flower, while other Tragopogon species can have yellow flowers. The flower heads later form spherical seed heads that resemble large dandelion clocks.

Is salsify native to North America?

Several Tragopogon species introduced from Europe have become naturalized in North America. Meadow salsify and western salsify are examples of related plants that can appear in roadsides, fields, and other disturbed habitats.

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