Carolina Desert-chicory (Pyrrhopappus carolinianus)

Pyrrhopappus carolinianusis known by the common names Carolina Desert-chicory, False-dandelion and Carolina False Dandelion. It’s a member of the family Asteraceae, to which the Common Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) belongs. It grows along roadsides, at home, and in several locations in Fort Yargo State Park. Plants can grow quite to 3 - 4 feet high. Its flowers are easily recognized by their distinct lemon-yellow color.

The plant. This plant is about 3 feet high.

Close up of leaves.

Flower buds beginning to develop.

An individual bud, a little further along.

Bud beginning to open.

A little further along.

A newly opening flower.

Fully opened.

Going to seed

Seed head.

Some seeds have blown away.

Closer view.

Up really close. Sometimes the seed heads are as beautiful as the flowers.

Pyrrhopappus carolinianus (Carolina Desert-chicory) is native to the southeastern United States.
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Distribution Map:
- United States Department of Agriculture Plants Database: Pyrrhopappus carolinianus (Carolina Desert-chicory)
- University of North Carolina Herbarium: Pyrrhopappus carolinianus

Identification resources:
- Southeastern Flora: Carolina Desert-chicory (Pyrrhopappus carolinianus)
- Natural and Naturalized Plants of the Carolinas and Georgia: Pyrrhopappus carolinianus
- Missouri Plants: Pyrrhopappus carolinianus

Related posts:
- 2010: Year Of The Wildflower – Wildflower Index