Tragopogon pratensis

Also known as Jack-go-to-bed-at-noon, Meadow Salsify, Yellow Goat's-beard, Showy Goat's-beard

Meadow goat's-beard is renowned for its punctual flower heads that open to greet the early morning sun and reliably shut tight by midday. During its second year, it raises upright stems bearing narrow, grass-like leaves and bright yellow composite blooms that mature into dramatic, oversized seed globes reminiscent of giant dandelion clocks. Deep taproots anchor the plant in well-drained soils, allowing it to withstand summer drought across open meadows and rural waysides.