problem with my salsify

I dug up a salsify plant today expecting a nice parsnip like root, instead I got this.

What did I do wrong? I planted them in late March. Are my scorzonera going to be the same I wonder?

Here's a pic

 

Isn't that what they are meant to look like? I have never grown them but my impression was that they were really skinny parsnip looking roots, but had a richer flavour than parsnip.

To keep the nice flavour, scrub thoroughly and trim the ends. Cut into 2" lengths andcook for 25 minutes in boiling salted water to which lemon juice has been added. Drain and squeeze off the skins, toss with a little melted butter and chopped parsley.

The roots are hardy and can be left in the ground up till April.

I am planning on growing some next year, so let us know what they taste like.

 

thanks for the recipe but I do think they're supposed to have fewer thicker roots.

I just boiled a scorzonera tonight and it was very nice, delicate flavour (not much taste) but I did like the subtle taste. They which might be nice with a sauce or fish. Worth growing anyway.

 

you're right sawfish, I'd expect one large (whiskery) root too :rolleyes: hope mine don't do that - tempted to rush off to plot and dig one up too!
are any of the others like that, perhaps it's a one-off?
if it happened to carrots you'd suspect stony soil or fresh manure wouldn't you :confused:

 

nothing more frustrating than a disappointing root. you're expecting to have to carry it home in a wheelbarrow, but realise once you pull it up that your pocket will do fine

commisserations sawfish...

 

I've read a second season is good for getting bigger roots, so I might leave them in a while yet.