Goat's Beard

Tragopogon pratensis

Physical Characteristics

Tragopogon pratensis is a ANNUAL/PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from June to July, and the seeds ripen from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in heavy clay soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil. The plant can tolerates strong winds but not maritime exposure.

Distribution

Europe, including Britain, from Scandanavia south and east to Spain, Caucasus, Siberia, Iran.

Habitats

Meadow; Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Root Shoots Stem Edible Uses: Root - raw or cooked[2, 9, 12, 52, 100]. The roots have a sweet flavour due to their inulin content[7]. The young roots can be eaten raw whilst older roots are best cooked like parsnips or salsify[9]. They are often blanched before use[183]. Young leaves and shoots - raw or cooked[2, 5, 12, 52, 62, 183]. They can be added to mixed salads or used in soups etc[7, 9]. The leaves are best used as they come into growth in the spring[9]. The flowering stem, including the buds, is cooked and served like asparagus[183].

Medicinal Uses

Astringent Depurative Diuretic Expectorant Stomachic Goat's beard is considered to be a useful remedy for the liver and gallbladder[254]. It appears to have a detoxifying effect and may stimulate the appetite and digestion. Its high inulin content makes this herb a useful food for diabetics since inulin is a nutrient made of fructose rather than glucose units and therefore does not raise blood sugar levels[254]. The root is astringent, depurative, diuretic, expectorant, nutritive and stomachic[7, 21]. A syrup made from the root gives great relief in cases of obstinate coughs and bronchitis[7]. A decoction of the root is given in the treatment of heartburn, loss of appetite and disorders of the breast or liver[240]. The root is harvested in the autumn and dried for later use[7]. The fresh juice of young plants is said to be a good dissolver of bile, relieving the stomach without side effects[4].

Known Hazards

None known