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Description
Tragopogon Mirus, commonly known as Showy Salsify, is a biennial plant species in the Asteraceae family. It is native to the Mediterranean region and has been introduced to North America, where it is now widely distributed. The plant has a deep taproot and produces a rosette of leaves during its first year of growth. In the second year, it sends up a tall flower stem that can reach up to four feet in height.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Tragopogon |
Appearance
Tragopogon Mirus has distinct features that make it easily recognizable. The plant produces a tall flower stem with showy pink to purple flowers that bloom from May to September. The flowers close in the afternoon and open again the next morning. The stem and leaves are covered in fine hairs, giving them a soft texture. The leaves are long and narrow, with a bluish-green color. The plant’s seed heads are large and spherical, up to two inches in diameter, and covered in silvery bristles.
Care Guide
Tragopogon Mirus is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for growing this plant:
- Water: The plant is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Water only when the soil is dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization but can benefit from a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. It can tolerate poor soil conditions and is often found growing in disturbed areas.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Tragopogon Mirus can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Tragopogon Mirus is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, here are some issues to watch out for:
- Aphids: These small, green insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause stunted growth. Spray the plant with a strong jet of water to remove them.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and avoid overhead watering.
- Root rot: This disease can be caused by overwatering or poorly-draining soil. Make sure the soil is well-draining and water only when necessary.
Habitat
Tragopogon Mirus is a versatile plant that can grow in a variety of habitats, including meadows, fields, roadsides, and disturbed areas. It prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. The plant is native to the Mediterranean region but has been introduced to North America, where it is now naturalized.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Tragopogon Mirus edible?
A: Yes, the plant is edible, and the young leaves can be used in salads. The root can also be cooked and eaten.
Q: Can Tragopogon Mirus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s deep taproot.
Q: Is Tragopogon Mirus a perennial or an annual?
A: Tragopogon Mirus is a biennial plant, meaning it completes its life cycle in two years.
Q: Can Tragopogon Mirus tolerate drought?
A: Yes, the plant is drought-tolerant and can survive periods of low water.
Related Plants
- Tragopogon porrifolius (Purple Salsify)
- Tragopogon pratensis (Meadow Salsify)
- Tragopogon dubius (Yellow Salsify)
References
- “Tragopogon mirus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b605.
- “Tragopogon mirus.” USDA Plants Database, plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=TRMI19.
- “Showy Salsify (Tragopogon mirus).” Illinois Wildflowers, www.illinoiswildflowers.info/weeds/plants/showy_salsify.htm.
