Goatsbeard
Tragopogon pratensis · Asteraceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant goatsbeard: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- May to July
- Adult size
- 24 to 35 inches tall
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (-4°F and below)
- Origin
- Temperate and central Europe
- Soil type
- Well-draining, chalky to neutral
Care
Exposure
Meadow salsify prefers full sun for generous flowering and intensified golden-yellow blooms. It tolerates partial shade but will flower less abundantly. Plant it in a well-ventilated and open location.
Watering
Water moderately and regularly during the growing season, especially during prolonged dry spells. Once established, salsify tolerates drought well thanks to its deep taproot. Avoid excess water which promotes rot.
Soil and compost
Salsify thrives in well-draining soil, preferably chalky or neutral. It tolerates poor and rocky soils. Loosen the soil deeply to allow the root to penetrate properly.
Pruning and maintenance
Remove spent flowers to extend blooming and limit excessive self-seeding. The plant maintains a naturally attractive shape without structural pruning. Eliminate dead stems after winter.
Fertilizer
Meadow salsify requires few nutrients. A moderate feed in spring is sufficient. Prefer balanced fertilizer or one low in nitrogen to avoid overly lush foliage at the expense of flowers.
Diseases and pests
This is a very robust plant, rarely affected by common diseases. Watch for slugs and snails in spring which can damage young leaves. Powdery mildew can appear in very humid conditions; improve air circulation.
Did you know?
Meadow salsify has a charming English nickname: 'goatsbeard,' referring to its plump, feathery fruits that resemble a shaggy tuft of hair. Long ago, the tuberous roots of the Tragopogon genus were cultivated as root vegetables and eaten throughout Europe, hence their name which literally means 'goat's beard' in Greek.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.