Tragopogon porrifolius
Tragopogon porrifolius
Tragopogon porrifolius, commonly known as the salsify or oyster plant, is a species of flowering plant in the sunflower family.
Pronunciation
Tragopogon porrifolius: /trəˈɡɒpəɡɒn pɔːrɪˈfoʊliəs/
Etymology
The genus name Tragopogon is derived from the Greek words 'tragos' meaning 'goat' and 'pogon' meaning 'beard', referring to the plant's hairy seeds. The species name porrifolius is derived from the Latin words 'porrum' meaning 'leek' and 'folium' meaning 'leaf', referring to the plant's leek-like leaves.
Description
Tragopogon porrifolius is a biennial plant usually growing up to 120 cm tall. It has a thick, fleshy taproot and linear, grass-like leaves. The flowers are purple and the seeds are attached to a pappus for wind dispersal.
Cultivation and uses
The root of Tragopogon porrifolius is edible and has a taste similar to oysters, hence the common name oyster plant. It is cultivated for its root in many parts of Europe and North America.
Related terms
- Asteraceae: The sunflower family, to which Tragopogon porrifolius belongs.
- Biennial plant: A type of plant that takes two years to complete its lifecycle.
- Taproot: The main root of a plant, from which smaller roots sprout.
- Pappus: The modified calyx that aids in the dispersal of the seeds of plants in the Asteraceae family.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Tragopogon porrifolius
- Wikipedia's article - Tragopogon porrifolius
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