Oyster Plant

(Tragopogon porrifolius)

Oyster Plant (Tragopogon porrifolius)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Tragopogon porrifolius, commonly known as Oyster Plant or Salsify, is a deciduous biennial herb native to Mediterranean grasslands and open fields in Southern Europe and North Africa. It typically grows to a height of 1-4 feet (30-120 cm) and a width of 0.5-1 feet (15-30 cm). The plant features grass-like leaves and distinctive flowers that are generally purple, pink, or sometimes yellow, blooming in late spring to early summer. The flowers are quite showy, opening in the morning and closing by the afternoon. After flowering, it forms a unique seed head that resembles a dandelion’s puffball.

The Oyster Plant is valued for its edible taproot, which tastes somewhat like oysters, and its ornamental flowers. It is used in vegetable gardens, as well as in ornamental borders for its interesting flower structure. This plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade and requires moderate watering. It is adaptable to a range of soil types, provided they are well-drained. While not commonly affected by diseases, it can occasionally suffer from root rot if overwatered. In some regions, it can self-seed and become naturalized, leading to concerns about its invasive potential. Gardeners should be cautious about planting it in areas where it may spread uncontrollably.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 1-3.5 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Pink, Purple
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Butterfly Garden, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

native to Mediterranean grasslands and open fields in Southern Europe and North Africa

Other Names

Common Names: Jerusalem Star, Salsify, Oysterplant, Salsafy, Jack Go To Bed, Vegetable-Oyster, Vegetable Oyster, Common Salsify, Goatsbeard, Purple Goatsbeard

Scientific Names: , Tragopogon porrifolius, Tragopogon porrifolius var. cupani, Tragopogon clavulatus, Tragopogon porrifolius f. porrifolius, Tragopogon porrifolius subsp. sativus, Tragopogon porrifolius var. porrifolius,

GBIF Accepted Name: Tragopogon porrifolius L.