Definition of "salsify"

(countable, uncountable) Any of several flowering plants, of the genus Tragopogon, most of which have purple flowers.

1. Tragopogon porrifolius, a plant with linear leaves; cultivated for its light-skinned edible root and herbal properties. Known in particular as "white salsify" among other common names  examples

(countable, uncountable) Pseudopodospermum hispanicum (syn. Scorzonera hispanica), a plant similar in flavor to T. porrifolius, with lanceolate leaves; cultivated for its dark-skinned edible root. Known in particular as "black salsify" among other common names  examples

(uncountable) The edible root of these plants.  examples