How to Grow Scorzonera

Updated June 2026

A cool-season root for the home garden across the warmer US.

What it looks like as it grows

scorzonera established stage — Established

Scorzonera is a rewarding cool-season crop for backyard growers.

When to plant

Scorzonera is a cool-season crop. In the South and Southwest, plant in fall through winter when the heat eases. See your region on the scorzonera page for exact timing.

Varieties

Black Salsify, Black-skinned, sweet root (specialty seed)

How to grow it

Sun & soil: full sun, rich well-drained soil with even moisture.
Spacing: about 6 in between plants.
Sowing: sow about 0.5 in deep.
Water: roughly 1.1 gal per plant every 3 days in hot weather.

Pests & problems

Watch for Few. In humid regions, White rust can appear, so space for airflow and water at the roots in the morning.

Harvest

Scorzonera is usually ready to harvest in about 4 months. Pick regularly to keep plants productive.

When to plant in your region

Pick your region to see exactly when to plant scorzonera where you garden.

See what to plant this month

Pick your region for a month-by-month calendar tuned to your climate.

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