Tragopogon porrifoliu
Family: Asteraceae

Growth Habit: Salsify is a former garden plant now found in many run down gardens, roadsides and waste areas. It is an erect plant which can grow up to 120cm in height. It has a well developed tap-root. Leaves are long and slender, and resemble grass leaves.

Type of Plant: Salsify usually behaves as an annual in Tasmania, but in some instances it can grow for 2 to 3 years.

Flowers: The flowers vary in colour from pale to deep purple. Flower heads are solitary on stalks.

Fruit/Seed: Many seeds are produced over summer and autumn.

Dispersal: Seeds are equipped with the typical daisy family parachute of hairs which helps them to be dispersed by wind.

 

 

Distribution: A garden escapee which may be found along roadsides, old gardens and waste areas. This plant in the past was cultivated as a vegetable.

Status: Undeclared in Tasmania.

Weed Impact:

• Minimal economic impact. Livestock readily grazes it.

For further information contact the Department of Primary Industry, Water and Environment, Tasmania.

Control Methods:

• Grubbing (all year). Plants may be manually removed with a fork or similar tool.

N.B. Always check the herbicide label before use.