Skirret (Sium sisarum L.) – origins and old cultivation methods in Poland

Abstract

Skirret (Sium sisarum L.) is a perennial plant in the celery family (Apiaceae); its edible parts are roots, which grow in clusters. It is native to Southeastern Europe, Western Asia and Siberia. It likely arrived to Poland from Russia, or through the Tartars. In Poland it was cultivated and enjoyed popularity as early as the Middle Ages, it was served on the tables of kings Jadwiga and Jagiello (14th century), and was also grown in the gardens of king Jan Kazimierz (17th century). However, since the 19th century, its popularity began to decline, although it was still mentioned in some 20th century textbooks. The aim of this study is to collect and analyze information on the cultivation and use of skirret, in Polish horticultural literature. Although the principles of cultivation of this plant are presented in many publications on horticultural plants, these are brief descriptions, not always consistent with one another. Skirret can be grown from sowing, both in autumn and spring, from seedlings, and by plant division. However, there are no clear opinions on the best cultivation method. However, there are also many uncertainties related to the propagation, cultivation, harvesting dates, and storage. The information presented in the article helps to direct further research related to the reintroduction of this once-popular vegetable into cultivation, and, consequently, into our diet.