Etymology: Tragopogon: derived from two Greek words tragos meaning "goat" and pogon meaning "beard," suggested by its prominent, feathery hairs when in seed
Plants: erect, biennial, 1'-3' tall forb with milky juice
Leaves: alternate, grass-like with straight, pointed tips, clasping
Flowers: head 2"-4" wide with purple ray flowers, bracts slightly to much longer than the rays; inflorescence a single head on a long stalk; blooms April-Aug.
Fruits: dry seed on brownish, fluffy pappus
Habitat: moist; disturbed sites, roadsides
Conservation Status: Introduced - escaped

Flora of North America: Flora of North America USDA Plants Database: Federal Distribution and detailed information including photos USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS): Images of seeds, fruits, embryos, etc. Southwest School of Botanical Medicine: Britton & Brown Illustrated Flora - 2nd Edition (1913) "An Illustrated Flora of the Northern United States and Canada"