Jack-go-to-bed-at-noon Tragopogon pratensis
ABOUT
Tragopogon pratensis, commonly known as Jack-go-to-bed-at-noon, is a striking flowering plant. The name whimsically refers to the plant's flowers that close by noon, resembling sleepyheads withdrawing from the sun's gaze. The plant is characterized by its grass-like leaves that are long, slender, and form a rosette near the base. Its flowers are a vibrant yellow color and resemble those of a daisy, with a ring of ray florets surrounding a central cluster of disc florets. They are borne atop solitary stems that emerge from the midst of the leaf rosette. After flowering, the plant develops a distinctive seed head; it resembles a large, fluffy dandelion clock that entices onlookers and invites seed dispersal by wind. The seeds themselves are attached to fine, hair-like structures called pappus, aiding their journey through the air. The overall form of Jack-go-to-bed-at-noon when in bloom is elegant and eye-catching, contributing an element of pastoral charm to the habitats it occupies.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Jack-go-to-bed-at-noon, Meadow Salsify, Showy Goat's-beard, Meadow Goat's-beard, Goat's Beard, Yellow Goat's-beard, Go-to-bed-at-noon, Yellow Salsify.
Common names
Tragopogon major, Tragopogon orientalis, Tragopogon pratensis subsp. orientalis, Tragopogon pratensis subsp. niger, Tragopogon niger.
ToxicityTo humans
Meadow Salsify (Tragopogon pratensis) is not commonly known to be toxic to humans. There are no well-documented cases or reports of toxicity or poisoning from ingesting this plant. Therefore, it is generally considered safe, and parts of the plant have traditionally been used as food. However, as with any wild plant, individual allergies or sensitivities are possible, and consuming any plant without proper identification and knowledge can be risky.
To pets
Meadow Salsify is not commonly recognized as a toxic plant for pets either. There are no significant reports of pets being poisoned by consuming Meadow Salsify. As with humans, pets may have individual allergies and sensitivities to plants, so it is always best to monitor your pet and prevent them from eating large quantities of any non-food plants.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Biennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
3 feet (0.91 meters)
Spread
1 foot (0.30 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Eurasia
Benefits
General Benefits- Edibility - The young leaves and roots of Tragopogon pratensis, commonly known as meadow salsify or Jack-go-to-bed-at-noon, can be consumed, often used in salads or cooked similarly to asparagus.
- Wildlife Attraction - It produces flowers that attract insects such as bees and butterflies, contributing to pollinator biodiversity.
- Landscape Ornamentation - With its distinctive yellow flowers, it adds aesthetic value to natural meadows and garden settings.
- Soil Health - As a deep-rooted plant, meadow salsify can help to improve soil structure and reduce erosion by stabilizing the soil with its roots.
- Cultural History - Has been used historically in various cultures for different purposes, contributing to regional heritage and traditions.
Medical Properties- Diuretic: Tragopogon pratensis, commonly known as Jack-go-to-bed-at-noon, has been used traditionally as a diuretic to increase urine production.
- Expectorant: The plant has properties that help in expelling phlegm from the respiratory tract.
- Laxative: It has been used to promote bowel movements to relieve constipation.
- Cholagogue: Tragopogon pratensis is believed to stimulate bile production and aid in the digestion process.
- Appetite stimulant: The plant has been used traditionally to stimulate appetite in herbal medicine practices.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Jack-go-to-bed-at-noon has been historically used as a forage crop for livestock, providing a source of nutrition for animals like cattle and sheep.
- The young leaves of the plant can be consumed in salads or cooked as a vegetable, similar to spinach or other leafy greens.
- The fibrous nature of the plant's roots allows for their use in traditional weaving or as a binding material in handicrafts.
- Due to its height and flowering characteristics, the plant can be used in ornamental garden designs to provide a vertical element.
- The plant can be included in wildflower meadow mixes to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.
- Dried stems of Jack-go-to-bed-at-noon may be used in floral displays and arrangements, providing a rustic aesthetic.
- The latex sap found in the plant has been traditionally used as a natural adhesive or glue in small repairs.
- The plant's fluff from its mature seed heads can be used as a tinder for starting fires in survival situations or traditional practices.
- When left to grow in agricultural lands, the plant can act as a natural soil conditioner, improving soil structure and fertility over time.
- Cultural significance: In some regions, the plant is associated with folklore and used in traditional ceremonies or storytelling due to its unique flowering behavior.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Jack-go-to-bed-at-noon is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Jack-go-to-bed-at-noon is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Patience: Tragopogon pratensis, commonly known as Goatsbeard, tends to open in the morning and close by the afternoon, symbolizing the virtue of patience as it waits for the right time to reveal itself each day.
- Transient beauty: The Goatsbeard's daily cycle of blooming and closing highlights the temporary nature of beauty and the fleeting moments in life one should cherish.
- Mystery: With its unique flowering behavior and appearance, Goatsbeard is often associated with mystery and things that are not what they first appear to be.
WaterGoat's beard should be watered deeply but infrequently to encourage a strong root system. A general guideline is to provide about 1 inch of water per week, whether from rainfall or manual watering. During hot, dry spells, you might need to water twice a week, ensuring you provide a total of around 2 gallons per week for an established plant. For young plants or seedlings, water them with approximately a half-gallon twice weekly to maintain consistent soil moisture until they are well-established.
LightGoat's beard thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions. The best spot for planting goat's beard would be a location where it receives at least 6 hours of sunlight daily, although it can also tolerate and do well in dappled sunlight or light afternoon shade. Avoid deep shade as this can hamper the plant's growth and flowering potential.
TemperatureThe ideal temperature conditions for goat's beard are between 60°F and 75°F. However, it can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F and can survive brief periods up to 90°F or slightly higher. It's important to avoid extremes, as prolonged heat or cold outside of these ranges can be detrimental to the plant's health.
PruningPruning goat's beard is mainly done to remove spent flower stalks and to shape the plant, enhancing its appearance. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Although extensive pruning is not necessary, removing dead or damaged stems annually will promote better air circulation and reduce the likelihood of disease.
CleaningAs needed
SoilJack-go-to-bed-at-noon thrives in loamy, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0. A mix of two parts garden soil, one part sand, and one part compost is ideal.
RepottingJack-go-to-bed-at-noon rarely needs repotting; do so only if it outgrows its container or every 2-3 years to refresh the soil.
Humidity & MistingJack-go-to-bed-at-noon prefers moderate humidity levels but is adaptable to various conditions, avoiding extremes.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Jack-go-to-bed-at-noon in bright light and well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade with moist, well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleTragopogon pratensis, commonly known as Meadow Salsify or Jack-go-to-bed-at-noon, begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in favorable conditions of moisture and temperature. Following germination, the seedling emerges and develops a rosette of lanceolate leaves at ground level. As the plant matures, it sends up a flowering stem with yellow, dandelion-like composite flowers that typically open in the morning and close around noon, hence the common name. After pollination, which is mostly facilitated by insects, the flowers develop into seed heads that resemble those of dandelions, consisting of seeds attached to feathery pappi that are dispersed by wind. Once the seeds land in a suitable environment, they will overwinter and germinate the following spring, continuing the annual cycle. Meadow Salsify is typically a biennial, meaning it completes its life cycle over two years, with the second year primarily dedicated to reproduction before the plant senesces and dies.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
Propogation: The most popular method of propagating Jack-go-to-bed-at-noon, or Tragopogon pratensis, is through its seeds. Seed propagation should be done in the fall or early spring when the soil temperature is cool. To begin with, seeds should be sown directly into the ground at a depth of around half an inch (approximately 1.27 centimeters). The soil should be kept moist until germination, which typically occurs within two to three weeks. Once seedlings emerge, they should be thinned to about 6 inches (15.24 centimeters) apart to allow adequate space for growth. This method capitalizes on the plant's natural life cycle and is often favored for its simplicity and effectiveness.
