Salsify

Salsify (Tragopogon porrifolius) is also known as “oyster plant” because the pleasant flavor is said to resemble that of an oyster, although it has the firm texture of all root vegetables. The roots of this European vegetable, which is the shape of a long carrot, can be up to twelve inches long, are grayish-black or brown, and the flesh is white. There is a variety with a black skin known as scorzonera. Marion Harland, the pen name of Mary Virginia Terhune (1830–1922; née Hawes), who wrote many cookbooks and books on domestic economy, was very fond of oyster plant and produced several recipes for it. It can be cooked like any root vegetable in soups, stews, and so forth. It is in season from early summer through winter but is most likely to be found in markets in the fall.