Tragopogon porrifolius

Salsify, Tragopogon porrifolius, is a fabulous plant to have in the garden. This hardy biennial not only looks good, bearing purple, starry flowers from spring to autumn, but is also edible and good for wildlife. Typically it's the roots that are eaten, which are said to have an oyster-like flavour, but the young shoots and flowers are edible too, and are often added to salads.

Try growing Tragopogon porrifolius in your veg beds and plots to give them a more ornamental look. It also looks wonderful growing in gravel gardens and meadows, where it will gently self-seed.

For best results, grow Tragopogon porrifolius in full sun, in moist, deep, well-drained soil. Either sow the seeds with bottom heat from late winter to early spring, or direct sow them where they are to flower in spring.