Black salsify

Short description of the species

Botanical name

Black salsify

Latin name

Scorzonera hispanica

Family

Asteraceae

Origin

Southern Europe, North Africa

Crop classification

root veghetable

Plant height

0,4 - 0,6 m

Plant width

0,1 - 0,2 m

Exposure

undemanding to location

Frost resistance

cold resistant

Keeping

easy

Water requirement

middle

Soil requirement

light to medium heavy

Soil pH

6,5 - 7,2

Edible part

root

lightbulb

Interesting

Until to 16th century, black salsify was consumed mostly by Keltic and Germanic nations who believes in its positive effect against plague and snake striking.

accessibility

Usage

- fresh (salads) or thermally-processed (side dish, soups, sauces, purée)

Environmental requirements, fertilization and inclusion in the crop rotation 

We classify Hadomor in the 2nd cultivation line (Petříková et al., 2012). The most suitable soils for its cultivation are light, sandy, suitable for the formation of long roots (Grubben and Denton, 2004). Hadomor is resistant to low temperatures, but higher yields are achieved in warmer areas (Petříková et al., 2012). The ideal monthly temperature average is 12-24°C (Stephens, 1994). 

Cultivation 

Hadomor is grown from direct sowing, ideally in March, as it has a longer vegetation period (Petříková et al., 2012). When establishing a stand, it is recommended to sow more densely in rows 0.20 m apart, followed by uniting the plants at a distance of 0.10 m in the row (Ashworth, 2002; Brickell et al., 2012). Hadomor requires irrigation only during periods of persistent drought. Harvesting is carried out in autumn; in areas with mild winters also in spring. The roots reach a consumption size approximately 6 months after sowing (Stephens, 1994). The harvest can be stored in cool and humid areas or the roots can be left in the ground even during the winter months (Petříková et al., 2012). 

Diseases and pests 

The only significant problem in the cultivation of black root (Pokluda et al., 2022) may be mold (Pustula/Albugo/tragoponis).