Tragopogon pratensis aka Goat's Beard

Taxonomy

Genus Tragopogon Family Asteraceae Order Asterales Class Magnoliopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Tragopogon pratensis, also known as Jack-go-to-bed-at-noon, meadow salsify, showy goat's-beard, or meadow goat's-beard, is a biennial plant in the Asteraceae family. It is native to Europe, Central Asia, and Turkey, but has been introduced to Canada, Haiti, and the United States. This low-growing rosette during the first year sends up one or more flowering stems 1-3' tall during the second year. The stems are round, hairless, and often somewhat enlarged at the base of each leaf. The basal leaves are similar in structure and appearance to the cauline leaves, which are up to 12" long and 1" across, lanceolate-linear in shape, smooth along the margins, and hairless. The flowers, which have a diameter of 3-5 cm, bloom between June and October and are found on a long naked stalk at the termination of each stem. The plant commonly grows in fields and on roadsides, hence its name. It is found in North America from southern Ontario to Massachusetts, most of England, on the eastern and southern edges of Scotland, and central Ireland but not the coastal edges. The root and buds of Tragopogon pratensis are edible, and it has a milky latex. The species common name Jack-Go-To-Bed-At-Noon refers to the flowering trait of closing by noon on sunny days.

Common names

Goat's Beard, Jack Go To Bed At Noon, Meadow Salsify, Showy Goat's Beard, Meadow Goat's Beard

How to care for Goat's Beard

Difficulty

Goat's Beard is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal attention, making it an excellent choice for beginners.

Water

Goat's Beard should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Goat's Beard loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Goat's Beard requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Goat's Beard will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Toxicity

Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.

Fertilizer

The Goat's Beard should be transferred to a new pot once it has increased in size two-fold, or on an annual basis, whichever occurs earlier. Replacing the soil with fresh potting soil containing all the necessary nutrients, is sufficient enough to support the growth of the plant, thus avoiding the need to use fertilizer. It's important to note that plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.

Growth-pattern

New growth will sprout from the top of the plant as it grows upwards.

Region of origin

Goat's Beard’s native range is Europe, including Britain, from Scandanavia south and east to Spain, Caucasus, Siberia, Iran.

More info:
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More Species in Tragopogon Genus

Tragopogon dubius Goatsbeard

Tragopogon gracilis

Tragopogon crocifolius

Tragopogon Goatsbeard

Tragopogon orientalis Orientalischer Bocksbart

Tragopogon porrifolius Salsify

Tragopogon pratensis Goat's Beard