Oyster root - also known as Salsify

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There is a plant by the name of Salsify, also known as oyster-root or

goatsbeard. You can purchase seeds by mail or on-line. The taproot is

proportionately long and is parsniplike. The plants can grow as high

as 40 inches or so. There are two types that I have heard about and

they are both edible, however, one tastes like oysters when cooked (it

has a purple flower head) the other tastes bitter and is very fibrous!

(it has a yellow flower head and is commonly seen as a weed) The seeds

of both of these look like giant versions of those produced by

dandelions. (Be careful where you plant them!)

They can be sliced and added to soups. You steam them until tender and

mash them and use them in your recipe.

Has anyone else heard about this plant?