Plant types

Plant styles

Planting conditions

Seasonal interest

Nurseries & Gardens

Photo by H. Zell

This file is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 license.

Show all photos

Scorzonera hispanica

Also Known As

Black Oyster Plant
Black Salsify
Serpent Root
Spanish Salsify
Viper's Grass
Viper's Herb

Plant type

perennial, fruit / vegetable

size

H: 3'
W: 3'

planting zones

6a-10b

More Options

Scorzonera hispanica plant details

Scorzonera hispanica is a broadleaf deciduous perennial fruit / vegetable with green foliage. In summer yellow flowers emerge. Attracts bees and butterflies making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens. Grows well with sun and regular water. Does well in average, rich and well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something heat tolerant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Scorzonera hispanica

Plant type: perennial fruit / vegetable
Plant family: asteraceae
Foliage: deciduous green
Mature size: 3 FT wide, 3 FT tall
Flowers: yellow blooms in summer
Uses: edible roots

GROWING CONDITIONS for Scorzonera hispanica

USDA Zones: 6a - 10b
Sun exposure: sun
Watering frequency: regular
Resistant to: heat
Soil needs: average, rich and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

This member of the Sunflower family has been cultivated since ancient times for its edible roots. Easy to grow, & tolerant of drought. The roots taste mildly oyster-like, & are high in protein, as well as vitamins A, C & E. Allow plants to mature at least one year before harvesting the roots. If grown in a low water situation, it may be longer before harvest. Flowers are small, yellow, & dandelion like. Nothing special, but your neighborhood bees & butterflies will like them! Loose, rich soil is best.