The first time I saw this wildflower, I thought it was a weed in the dandelion family.

As I watched this flower change, I looked at this beauty and found out that it was a wildflower.

This wildflower loves to pop up and surprise us amid grasses and weeds.

It looks like a yellow star to me.

Characteristics of Salsify Wildflower

• Scientific Name: Tragopogon spp.
• Common Names: Salsify, Oyster Plant, Goatsbeard
• Family: Asteraceae
• Habitat: Typically found in disturbed areas, fields, meadows, and along roadsides.
• Flower Description:
  • Large yellow flowers resembling dandelions.
  • Flowers open in the morning and close in the afternoon.
  • The blooming period is generally from late spring to early summer.
• Leaves:
  • Long, narrow leaves that can grow up to 12 inches in length.
  • Leaves are basal and arranged in a rosette pattern.
• Root: The taproot is edible and has a flavor reminiscent of oysters, hence the name "oyster plant."
• Seed Dispersal: Seeds are produced in puffball-like seed heads that disperse via wind.
• Growth Habit: Biennial or perennial, depending on the species.
• Geographic Distribution: Native to Europe and Asia, but widely naturalized in North America.