Plant Profile

ScorzoneraScorzonera

A nutritious root tuber with a mild flavor, ideal for autumn and winter harvest. Requires deep soil.

Root vegetablesAster family
Calendar
Scorzonera (Scorzonera): plant portrait - Root vegetables, Aster family, Full sun to partial shade
Scorzonera: plant portrait. harvest: January - March, October - December.

Quick profile

Key data

Growing calendar
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Direct sowing outdoors
Harvest
Direct sowing outdoorsHarvest

Suitable growing locations:

Outdoor garden bedRaised bed

Good neighbors

StrawberryBeanCabbage

Avoid

FennelLettuceJerusalem artichoke

Indoor & direct sowing

Scorzonera: Sowing and germination

Direct sowing outdoors

Direct sowing into the open ground from March, as soon as the soil is workable. Later sowings are possible until May.

Seed depth1 - 2 cm
Germination temp5 - 20 °C
Germination time10 - 25 days
Pre-culture recommendedNo
Light germinatorNo
Dark germinatorYes
Cold germinatorNo
Stratification neededNo
Pre-soaking recommendedNo

Planting & site

Scorzonera: Planting and spacing

LightFull sun to partial shade
WindSheltered from wind
Plant spacing10 - 15 cm
Row spacing30 - 40 cm
Plants per m²40 - 60 per m²
Bed widthfrom 40 cm

Site & practical notes

General: Scorzonera are a healthy and tasty root vegetable well-suited for home garden cultivation. Pay attention to deep soil and avoid waterlogging., Sowing: Direct sow into the open ground from March to May. Sow in rows with approx. 30-40 cm spacing. Germination takes 10-25 days. Keep the soil moist., Cultivation: Keep the bed free of weeds, especially in the early stages. Regular hoeing loosens the soil. Water during dry periods, but avoid waterlogging., Harvest: Harvest from October into late winter. The roots are frost-hardy and can remain in the ground. Dig carefully to avoid damaging the roots., Problems: Crooked roots due to stony or compacted soil are a common problem. Ensure adequate spacing and loose soil., Tips: To prevent discoloration when peeling, place the roots immediately in vinegar water after peeling. The roots are rich in inulin, which is good for gut health.

Temperature & frost

Scorzonera: Temperature and site

LightFull sun to partial shade
Growing temperaturefrom 5 °C
Optimal temperature15 - 20 °C
Max. heatup to 25 °C
Soil temperature5 - 15 °C
Frost sensitiveNo
Late frost sensitiveNo
Heat tolerancelow
Cold tolerancehigh

Water & nutrients

Scorzonera: Water, nutrients and care

Watermedium
Critical water phasesGermination, Root growth
Watering methodWater at the base
Droughtmedium
Waterlogging sensitiveYes
Mulching recommendedYes
Nutrient needmedium feeder
Compost recommendedYes
Fertilizer sensitivitylow

Container & growth

Scorzonera: Container, support and growth

Container suitableNo
SupportNo
Height30 - 60 cm
Width15 - 20 cm
Root depth15 - 30 cm
Root spread5 - 10 cm
Yield0.1 - 0.3 kg

Year plan

Scorzonera Calendar

Plants

The harvest season extends from autumn to late spring, making scorzonera a valuable component of the winter harvest.

Year overview
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Direct sowing outdoors
Harvest

Recurring tasks

Loosen soilJanuary - February
soil workable: Only if the soil is not frozen.
HarvestJanuary - March, October - December
Harvest can begin in October and continue into late winter or early spring, depending on the weather. The roots are frost-hardy and can overwinter in...
Harvest rootsJanuary - February, October
roots mature: Dig carefully to avoid damaging the roots.

Relevant now

June

  • Soil maintenanceweeds present or soil compacted: Keeps the soil loose and promotes root growth.
  • Wateringdry weather: Consistent moisture is important for root development.

Next up

July

  • Soil maintenanceweeds present or soil compacted: Prevents competition for water and nutrients.
  • Wateringdry weather: Especially important during the root growth phase.

Monthly tasks

Single tasks from monthly data; repeated seasonal windows are shown in the overview above.

Direct sowingHarvestGrowingPlant health

January

Quiet month

February

Quiet month

March

Direct sowing outdoorsHarvest roots

Direct sowing

  • Direct sowing outdoorssoil workable: Sow in rows with approx. 30-40 cm spacing.

Harvest

  • Harvest rootsroots mature: Last harvest of overwintered plants.

April

Repeat sowingWeed control

Direct sowing

  • Repeat sowingsoil workable: For a continuous harvest.

Plant health

  • Weed controlweeds present: Young plants are sensitive to competition.

May

Repeat sowingWeed control

Direct sowing

  • Repeat sowingsoil workable: Late sowing for autumn harvest.

Plant health

  • Weed controlweeds present: Especially important for young plants.

June

Soil maintenanceWatering

Growing

  • Soil maintenanceweeds present or soil compacted: Keeps the soil loose and promotes root growth.
  • Wateringdry weather: Consistent moisture is important for root development.

July

Soil maintenanceWatering

Growing

  • Soil maintenanceweeds present or soil compacted: Prevents competition for water and nutrients.
  • Wateringdry weather: Especially important during the root growth phase.

August

WateringPest control

Growing

  • Wateringdry weather: Ensures good development of storage roots.

Plant health

  • Pest controlsigns of pests or disease: Possible pests include aphids and root-knot nematodes.

September

Harvest rootsPest control

Harvest

  • Harvest rootsroots mature: Depending on sowing time and weather.

Plant health

  • Pest controlsigns of pests or disease: Preventive measures can help.

October

Quiet month

November

Harvest rootsLoosen soil

Harvest

  • Harvest rootsroots mature: As long as the soil is not frozen.

Growing

  • Loosen soilsoil compacted: Facilitates harvesting and prepares the soil for winter.

December

Harvest rootsWinter protection

Harvest

  • Harvest rootsroots mature and soil not frozen: The roots are frost-hardy and can overwinter in the ground.

Plant health

  • Winter protectionsevere frost: A layer of mulch or brushwood can help.

Flowering & pollination

Scorzonera Flowering & pollination

Self-fertility

cross-pollinating

Pollinator needed

yes

Overview

Scorzonera are biennial plants that flower and produce seeds in their second year. The flowers are typical of the Asteraceae family and are pollinated by insects.

Notes

Bees and other insects visit the flowers. Cross-pollination is beneficial for good seed production.

Companion guide

Scorzonera Companion guide

Companion guide

Good neighbors

StrawberryBeanCabbage

Avoid

FennelLettuceJerusalem artichoke

Use & storage

Scorzonera Use & storage

Harvest

Harvest can begin in October and continue into late winter or early spring, depending on the weather. The roots are frost-hardy and can overwinter in the ground.

Storage

Root vegetable

Storage life

In the refrigerator wrapped in a damp cloth or sand: 1-2 weeks. In a cool cellar in damp sand: several weeks to months.

Flavor

Mild, slightly sweet, nutty, earthy, reminiscent of asparagus or artichoke.

Harvest

Harvest can begin in October and continue into late winter or early spring, depending on the weather. The roots are frost-hardy and can overwinter in the ground.

Processing

EinfrierenEinlegenTrocknen

After harvest

Wash the roots thoroughly after harvest and remove any adhering soil. Use damaged roots immediately. The roots are sensitive to drying out.

Edibility & safety

Scorzonera Edibility & safety

For people

In brief: which parts are edible, which parts remain risky, and whether raw consumption makes sense.

Edible parts:Root
Caution parts:Leaves and stems (not commonly eaten, but theoretically edible, though fibrous and less palatable)
Raw consumption:The roots can be consumed raw, but are more digestible and tastier when cooked or steamed.

Safety notes

Scorzonera is non-toxic. The exuded latex may cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals.

Animal safety

For many animals, this plant is generally low-risk: 13 animal types are rated suitable or mostly suitable. Quantity, plant part, and individual tolerance still matter.

Animal safety by plant part

Each row shows which parts are more suitable and which parts are critical.

Companion animals

Dog icon for animal safety ratingDog

Root

Leaves and stems

Risk factors

Ingestion of large amounts, Contact with exuded latex

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset, Skin irritation from latex contact

observe

The root of black salsify is edible for dogs and used as a root vegetable. Leaves and stems contain latex that may cause skin irritation in sensitive dogs. Consuming large amounts may cause gastrointestinal upset. Only feed the root in small amounts as an occasional treat. Avoid leaves and stems.

Open animal page
Cat icon for animal safety ratingCat

Root

No risk parts listed

Risk factors

Overconsumption may cause gastrointestinal upset

usually no action needed

Scorzonera roots are edible for cats and used as a root vegetable. No known toxic compounds. Overconsumption may cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to fiber content. Leaves and stems are fibrous and less palatable but not toxic.

Open animal page
Rabbit icon for animal safety ratingRabbit

Root

Leaves and stems

Risk factors

Excessive consumption of the root, Contact with latex in sensitive animals

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset with excessive consumption, mild skin irritation from latex in sensitive animals

observe

The root of scorzonera is edible for rabbits and is occasionally fed as a treat. Leaves and stems contain more fiber and latex, which can cause gastrointestinal upset if consumed excessively. The latex may cause mild skin irritation in sensitive animals. At normal feeding amounts, the risk is low.

Open animal page
Guinea pig icon for animal safety ratingGuinea pig

Root

Leaves and stems

Risk factors

Excessive consumption may cause digestive issues, Leaves and stems are fibrous and less digestible

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset with excessive consumption, mild skin irritation from latex

observe

The root of Scorzonera is suitable for guinea pigs in small amounts as a treat. Leaves and stems should be avoided due to fiber content and potential latex irritation. Clean skin if exposed to latex. Consult a veterinarian if digestive upset occurs after consumption.

Open animal page
Hamster icon for animal safety ratingHamster

Root

Leaves and stems

Risk factors

Overconsumption of the root, Contact with latex in sensitive animals

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset from overconsumption, mild skin irritation from latex in sensitive animals

observe

The root of scorzonera is suitable for hamsters in small amounts as a treat. Leaves and stems contain latex that may cause skin irritation in sensitive animals and should be avoided. Overconsumption may lead to gastrointestinal upset. Observe the animal for symptoms and contact a veterinarian if persistent issues arise.

Open animal page
Budgie icon for animal safety ratingBudgie

No suitable parts listed

No risk parts listed

unknown

No reliable species-specific assessment is available.

Open animal page

Farm animals

Horse icon for animal safety ratingHorse

Root

No risk parts listed

Risk factors

Overconsumption may cause digestive upset due to high fiber content

usually no action needed

Scorzonera is non-toxic to horses. The root is edible and can be fed as an occasional treat. Leaves and stems are theoretically edible but not recommended due to fiber and taste. No known toxic compounds for horses are documented. No risk with moderate feeding of the root. Excessive consumption may cause temporary digestive upset due to high fiber content. Exuded latex may cause mild skin irritation in sensitive…

Open animal page
Chicken icon for animal safety ratingChicken

Root

Leaves and stems

Risk factors

Excessive consumption of root, Consumption of leaves or stems, Skin contact with latex in sensitive animals

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset from excessive consumption, mild skin irritation from latex

observe

The root of scorzonera is suitable for chickens in small amounts as a treat. Leaves and stems should be avoided due to high fiber content and possible latex. Skin contact with the latex may cause mild irritation. Excessive consumption may lead to gastrointestinal upset.

Open animal page
Duck icon for animal safety ratingDuck

Root

Leaves and stems

Risk factors

Excessive consumption of root, Consumption of leaves or stems, Skin contact with latex in sensitive animals

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset from excessive consumption, mild skin irritation from latex

observe

No direct species-specific source was found for ducks. This is a cautious inference from the geese profile and the known plant-part risks.

Open animal page
Goose icon for animal safety ratingGoose

Root

Leaves and stems

Risk factors

Excessive consumption of root, Consumption of leaves or stems, Skin contact with latex in sensitive animals

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset from excessive consumption, mild skin irritation from latex

observe

No direct species-specific source was found for geese. This is a cautious inference from the chickens profile and the known plant-part risks.

Open animal page
Sheep icon for animal safety ratingSheep

Root

Leaves and stems

Risk factors

Leaves and stems are fibrous and less palatable, but excessive consumption may cause gastrointestinal upset

Symptoms

none from root consumption

usually no action needed

No direct species-specific source was found for sheep. This is a cautious inference from the goats profile and the known plant-part risks.

Open animal page
Goat icon for animal safety ratingGoat

Root

Leaves and stems

Risk factors

Leaves and stems are fibrous and less palatable, but excessive consumption may cause gastrointestinal upset

Symptoms

none from root consumption

usually no action needed

The root of scorzonera is edible for goats and is occasionally fed as a treat. Leaves and stems are not toxic but are only suitable in small quantities due to their high fiber content and low nutritional value. The exuded latex may cause mild skin irritation in sensitive goats. No poisoning symptoms are expected with normal feeding of the root. Excessive consumption of leaves or stems may cause temporary digestive…

Open animal page
Cattle icon for animal safety ratingCattle

Root

Leaves and stems

Risk factors

Leaves and stems are fibrous and less palatable, but excessive consumption may cause gastrointestinal upset

Symptoms

none from root consumption

usually no action needed

No direct species-specific source was found for cattle. This is a cautious inference from the sheep profile and the known plant-part risks.

Open animal page
Pig icon for animal safety ratingPig

Root

No risk parts listed

usually no action needed

The root of Scorzonera is edible for pigs and is used as feed in some regions. No known toxic effects at normal feeding levels. The latex may cause mild skin irritation in sensitive animals, but is not relevant upon oral ingestion.

Open animal page

These guidelines are for general information only and do not replace veterinary diagnosis. If critical plant parts were ingested or the animal shows unusual behaviour or symptoms, seek veterinary advice.

Max risk

unknown

Highest status

not established

Urgency

unknown

Saving seed

Scorzonera Saving seed

Seed viability

2 - 3 years

Practical tips

Scorzonera Practical tips

Common beginner mistakes

Sowing in soil that is too heavy or stony, leading to crooked roots.Insufficient weed control during the early growth phase.

Success pattern

Preparation of deep, loose soil and sowing at the right time.Regular but moderate watering and good weed control.

High-impact tips

Mulching the bed after emergence keeps the soil moist and suppresses weeds.The roots can overwinter in the ground; harvest as needed to simplify storage.

Grower observations

Many gardeners report that scorzonera, despite its robustness, is sensitive to soil compaction. Deep soil is truly the key to success.Harvesting in winter can be a challenge, but the roots tolerate light frost well in the ground. A layer of mulch provides additional protection.

Plant Profile

Additional plant images

Scorzonera (Scorzonera): whole plant for plant portrait - Root vegetables, Aster family, Full sun to partial shade
Scorzonera (Scorzonera): whole plant for plant portrait - Root vegetables, Aster family, Full sun to partial shade

Health

Pests, Diseases

Plant health

AphidsSlugsRustDowny mildewRoot rotNitrogen deficiencyPotassium deficiencyMagnesium deficiencyBolting

Diagnosis help

Scorzonera Diagnosis help

Pest groups

Sucking insects (aphids)Nematodes (root-knot nematodes)Slugs and snails

Disease groups

Fungal diseases (rust, downy mildew)Bacterial diseases (rare)Root rot (due to waterlogging)

Prevention

Optimal site and soil preparation (deep, loose, well-drained).Appropriate crop rotation (at least 3-4 years break from Asteraceae).Consistent water supply, avoidance of waterlogging.Balanced nutrient supply, preferably organic.Encouraging beneficial organisms.Regular monitoring for pests and diseases.

Diagnosis

Symptoms such as yellowing leaves, growth disturbances, or visible pests/disease signs on the soil or plants indicate problems. Accurate identification is important for correct control.

Cultural prevention

Choose a sunny, well-ventilated location.Prepare the soil deeply, remove stones, and ensure good drainage.Maintain appropriate crop rotation (at least 3-4 years break from Asteraceae).Avoid waterlogging through appropriate watering and soil management.Fertilize balanced with organic matter.Sow with adequate spacing to promote air circulation.

Monitoring

Regularly check leaves for signs of rust or mildew.Look for signs of pests like aphids or slugs.Monitor soil moisture and overall plant health.

First response

Remove and dispose of affected leaves at the first sign of fungal diseases.Encourage beneficial insects for aphids or spray with a mild soap solution.Hand-pick slugs or use biological slug pellets.Apply plant strengtheners (e.g., horsetail decoction) if needed.

Diagnostic rules

Small, orange to brown pustules on the underside of leaves, followed by yellowing.

Possible causes: Rust

  • Check humidity
  • Assess ventilation
  • Examine affected leaves

Yellowish spots on the upper leaf surface, grey coating on the underside.

Possible causes: Downy mildew

  • Check weather conditions (damp?)
  • Check watering method (overhead?)
  • Examine affected leaves

Plants wilt despite moist soil, roots are mushy or discolored.

Possible causes: Root rot

  • Check soil condition (waterlogging?)
  • Assess site drainage
  • Expose and examine roots

FAQ

When is the best time to sow scorzonera?

The best time to sow scorzonera is from March to May directly into the open ground, as soon as the soil is workable.

How deep should I sow scorzonera?

Sow the seeds about 1 to 2 cm deep into the soil.

Why are my scorzonera roots crooked?

Crooked roots are often the result of stony, compacted, or shallow soil. Thorough soil loosening before sowing and removing stones will help.

What is the best way to store scorzonera?

Store scorzonera cool and moist, e.g., in a cellar in damp sand or in the refrigerator wrapped in a damp cloth. They will keep for several weeks to months this way.

Can scorzonera also be grown in pots?

Due to their deep taproot, scorzonera are rather unsuitable for pot cultivation. They require deep soil.

Is Scorzonera safe for Dog?

Scorzonera is classified as moderation only for Dog. Risk: unknown. Urgency: observe. The root of black salsify is edible for dogs and used as a root vegetable. Leaves and stems contain latex that may cause skin irritation in sensitive dogs. Consuming large amounts may cause gastrointestinal upset. Only feed the root in small amounts as an occasional treat. Avoid leaves and stems.

Is Scorzonera safe for Cat?

Scorzonera is classified as moderation only for Cat. Risk: unknown. Urgency: usually no action needed. Scorzonera roots are edible for cats and used as a root vegetable. No known toxic compounds. Overconsumption may cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to fiber content. Leaves and stems are fibrous and less palatable but not toxic.

Is Scorzonera safe for Rabbit?

Scorzonera is classified as moderation only for Rabbit. Risk: unknown. Urgency: observe. The root of scorzonera is edible for rabbits and is occasionally fed as a treat. Leaves and stems contain more fiber and latex, which can cause gastrointestinal upset if consumed excessively. The latex may cause mild skin irritation in sensitive animals. At normal feeding amounts, the risk is low.

Is Scorzonera safe for Guinea pig?

Scorzonera is classified as moderation only for Guinea pig. Risk: unknown. Urgency: observe. The root of Scorzonera is suitable for guinea pigs in small amounts as a treat. Leaves and stems should be avoided due to fiber content and potential latex irritation. Clean skin if exposed to latex. Consult a veterinarian if digestive upset occurs after consumption.

Guides

Related guides

Garden guides

Sources

Public sources

  1. Wikidata entity

    Wikidata · 2026-05-15

  2. GBIF species match

    GBIF · 2026-05-15

  3. Deutschsprachige Wikipedia: Schwarzwurzeln

    Wikipedia · 2026-05-15

  4. English Wikipedia: Scorzonera

    Wikipedia · 2026-05-15

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