About
The blue-green leaves are long and narrow and it has a large, fleshy taproot which is edible, however this is best in its first winter before it has flowered. A biennial which flowers in its second year, this can be grown for its ornamental flowers. These have mauve petals with a star of long green sepals around the edge. This variety is said to be the tastiest and remains good to use until March.
About the genus
Tragopogon can be annuals or herbaceous perennials with grass-like linear leaves and large, dandelion-like yellow or purple flowerheads in summer
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeAnnual Biennial
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Mediterranean climate plants
Care notes
CultivationGrow in good light, in deep soil to allow for growth of the taproot. For more advice see salsify cultivation
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed. See sowing vegetable seeds
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free