Moscow salsify facts for kids

The Moscow salsify (scientific name: Tragopogon miscellus) is a type of plant. It grows naturally in the states of Washington and Idaho in the United States. This plant is special because it formed in a unique way. It's a new species that came from two other plants combining their genes.

Scientists have studied the Moscow salsify for many years. They found that it is a hybrid plant. This means it was created from two different parent plants. Its parents are T. dubius and T. pratensis. Both of these parent plants originally came from Europe. However, they now grow widely in the United States. The Moscow salsify can reproduce on its own in the wild. This is why it is recognized as its own distinct species.

What is the Moscow Salsify?

The Moscow salsify is a type of herb. An herb is a plant with soft stems, not woody ones like trees. This plant can grow quite tall. It often reaches up to 150 centimeters (about 60 inches) in height.

Leaves and Flowers

The leaves of the Moscow salsify change as they grow. When the leaves are young, they feel a bit fuzzy. This fuzzy texture is called tomentose. As the leaves get older, they become almost completely smooth. This smooth texture is called glabrous.

A cool thing about the leaves is their tips. The very end of each leaf is recoiled. This means it curves backward, like a little hook. The flowers of the Moscow salsify are bright yellow. They add a splash of color to the plant.