Salsify and Black Salsify, Scorzonera

Salsify is a name for two plants of two different genera, both within the giant family Compositae (also called Asteraceae). Although the use of a single name is confusing, there are botanical and culinary reasons for it. Superficially, the two plants can be described by traits they have in common with other members of the family: The leaves resemble flat chicories and endive; the root looks like burdock (I have seen salsify and burdock mixed up in markets). The flavor is reminiscent of soft-cooked heart of artichoke with a suggestion of sunchoke, although it is usually compared to the oyster—not a relative!