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Western salsify
is a biannual which sometimes acts like an annual. Its growth habit
changes over its life span. Salsify grows its first year in a basal
rosette. The leaves are long, linear and grass like, and can grow
up to a foot in length. When growing as a biannual, it over-winters
in the rosette stage. During the second season, salsify produces
an erect stem, 18 - 24 inches tall. The root of western salsify
is a thick fleshy tap root. All parts of western salsify produces
a milky sap when broken.
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The flower of western
salsify is yellow and is produced in late spring to early summer. The
flowers are usually only present morning to early afternoon. They are
produced on the end of long stems. The stem is swollen and hollow just
below the flower. The seed head resembles the seed head of a dandelion,
but is much larger, 2 - 3 inches in diameter.
Western salsify is
found throughout the United States. It is more prevalent in western states.
Cultural Practices:
Western salsify is found in horticultural crops, roadsides, pastures,
rangelands, and disturbed areas. Any cultivation, including mowing, will
control this plant.
Herbicide Use:
Use a selective postemergent application timed after germination when
plants are young and actively growing.
University
Links | Gordon's
Recommendations | Germination
Dates
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