How to Grow Scorzonera in New Zealand

Scorzonera hispanica, the black-skinned root with white flesh and a more delicate flavour than salsify, sometimes called black salsify. The yellow dandelion-like flowers and young leaves are edible too. Another forgotten European kitchen-garden gem that needs deep, loose soil.

When to plant scorzonera in New Zealand

Timing is everything in New Zealand, where the warm north and the cooler south are weeks apart. Sow or plant in these months for your region:

Region	When to sow or plant
Northland	January, February, March, April, August, September, October
Auckland	January, February, March, April, August, September, October
Waikato & BoP	January, February, March, April, August, September, October
Wellington	January, February, March, April, August, September, October
Nelson & Marlborough	January, February, March, April, August, September, October
Canterbury	January, February, March, April, August, September, October
Otago & Southland	January, February, March, April, August, September, October
Central Otago	January, February, March, April, August, September, October

Best scorzonera varieties for NZ

Russian Giant — Standard variety. Long black roots to 30cm. The most widely available. (Egmont Seeds, Kings Seeds)

How to grow scorzonera

Space plants about 15cm apart.
Sow seed around 1cm deep.
Position: full sun.
Ready to harvest in roughly 120 days.
Seeds germinate in about 10 days.

Companion planting

Grow scorzonera near: Carrot, Onion.

Pests and problems

Watch for: Slugs. See our NZ pest and disease guide for organic control.

For a calendar tuned to your exact region, see the New Zealand planting guides or the Scorzonera plant page.

FAQ

When is the best time to plant scorzonera in New Zealand?

In the warm north (Auckland, Northland) sow in January, February, March, April, August, September, October. Cooler regions plant a little later. Check the table above for your region.

Where can I buy scorzonera seeds or plants in NZ?

Try Egmont Seeds, Kings Seeds.