Skirret: The Forgotten Medieval Root Vegetable Worth Rediscovering
If you’re looking to add a touch of historical intrigue to your garden, meet skirret (Sium sisarum) – a charming perennial that was once the darling of medieval European gardens. This delicate member of the carrot family offers both ornamental appeal and edible rewards, making it a unique addition for adventurous gardeners who love plants with stories to tell.
What Is Skirret?
Skirret is a herbaceous perennial native to Europe and western Asia, where it thrived in monastery gardens and royal kitchens centuries ago. This graceful plant produces clusters of small, sweet-tasting roots that were prized long before potatoes arrived in Europe. Today, it’s experiencing a quiet renaissance among heritage gardeners and foragers.
Geographic Distribution and Native Status
Originally from Europe and parts of western Asia, skirret has naturalized in some areas of North America but is not considered native here. While it’s not classified as invasive, North American gardeners might want to consider native alternatives like wild parsnip or native members of the Apiaceae family that provide similar ecological benefits.
Aesthetic Appeal and Garden Role
Don’t let skirret’s humble reputation fool you – this plant brings genuine beauty to the garden. Its delicate, lacy foliage creates an airy texture that complements bolder plants beautifully. In mid-summer, it sends up tall stems crowned with flat-topped clusters of tiny white flowers that have an almost ethereal quality.
Skirret works wonderfully as:
- A backdrop plant in cottage-style gardens
- An edible ornamental in kitchen gardens
- A naturalized planting in informal landscape areas
- A conversation starter in heritage or historical gardens
Growing Conditions and Care
Skirret is refreshingly easy to grow, especially if you can provide its preferred conditions. This plant appreciates:
- Soil: Moist, fertile, well-draining soil with good organic content
- Light: Partial shade to full sun (morning sun with afternoon shade is ideal)
- Water: Consistent moisture – think damp but not soggy
- Climate: Hardy in USDA zones 4-8, preferring cooler conditions
Planting and Care Tips
Getting started with skirret is straightforward, though patience is key since this is a plant once, harvest later kind of crop:
- Plant root divisions in early spring when soil is workable
- Space plants about 12 inches apart to allow for spreading
- Keep soil consistently moist throughout the growing season
- Harvest roots in fall after the first frost for best flavor
- Divide established clumps every 3-4 years to maintain vigor
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Pollinator and Wildlife Benefits
Like many members of the carrot family, skirret’s umbrella-shaped flower clusters are magnets for beneficial insects. You’ll likely see bees, hoverflies, and other small pollinators visiting the blooms throughout the summer. The seeds also provide food for small birds, though many gardeners harvest the roots before seeds mature.
Should You Plant Skirret?
Skirret might be perfect for you if you:
- Love trying unusual edible plants
- Enjoy plants with historical significance
- Want a low-maintenance perennial for partially shaded areas
- Appreciate delicate, naturalistic garden textures
However, consider native alternatives if your primary goal is supporting local ecosystems. Plants like wild ginger, native ferns, or regional Apiaceae species might better serve both your garden design needs and local wildlife.
The Bottom Line
Skirret offers a delightful blend of history, beauty, and flavor that’s hard to find in modern gardens. While it may not be the showiest plant you’ll ever grow, its quiet charm and unique story make it a worthwhile addition for gardeners who appreciate plants with personality. Just remember to give it the moist, fertile conditions it craves, and you’ll be rewarded with both lovely flowers and a fascinating connection to gardens of centuries past.
