Skirret

Skirret (Sium sisarum) is a fascinating historical root vegetable, once widely cultivated in Europe. It produces clusters of sweet, white, slender roots with a flavour reminiscent of parsnip and carrot, but with a unique sweetness. This hardy perennial (H6) grows to an ultimate height of 60cm and spread of 30cm. It flowers with delicate white umbels in summer, which are attractive to pollinators. Prefers full sun and consistently moist, rich soil. The roots can be harvested from autumn onwards, becoming sweeter after a frost. A less common but rewarding vegetable for adventurous gardeners.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Moist, rich soil.

Hardiness: H6 — down to −20°C.

Flowering: Jul, Aug.