Mammoth Sandwich Island

Creamy-white, tender flesh with a mild, delicate flavor famously compared to oysters (hence 'oyster plant' or 'vegetable oyster'), with hints of artichoke heart; flavor sweetens after frost.

Long, tapered roots roughly 8-10 inches long and about 1-1.5 inches thick at the shoulder, with off-white to tan skin and white flesh; grass-like foliage and purple dandelion-like flowers in the second year.

Direct sow in deep, friable, well-drained soil in mid to late spring about 1/2 inch deep in full sun; flavor improves after several frosts and roots can be left in the ground over winter or mulched in cold climates. Use fresh seed each year as viability drops quickly.