Scorzonera divaricata
At a glance
- Lifecycle
- Perennial (hardy)
- Exposure
- Full sun
Cultivation
We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in most parts of the country. There is some confusion over the correct name for this species, this name might be no more than a synonym for S. virgata. See which lists S. divaricate. Hook.f. (a different author to the one we are using) as a synonym of S. virgata. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Succeeds in any soil in sun or light shade.
Propagation
Seed - sow spring in the greenhouse. Prick out the seedlings as soon as they are large enough to handle into relatively deep pots to accommodate the tap root. If growth is good, plant out in early summer, other wise grow them on in the greenhouse for their first winter and plant them out in late spring of the following year. Division in autumn or as growth commences in the spring. Larger divisions can be planted out direct into their permanent positions. We have found it best to pot up the smaller divisions and grow them on in a lightly shaded position in a cold frame, planting them out once they are well established in the summer.
Edible uses
Root - cooked. Leaves - cooked.
Material uses
A latex is obtained by maceration of the root. It is used for making a high class rubber.
Habitat
Well-drained dry grassy and rocky habitats.
Native range
E. Asia - Himalayas, Manchuria, Mongolia.