Goatsbeard Seed Head and Achenes

Here you can see the seed head where the achenes are seated. When the seeds are ripe, the seed head will stretch downwards, loosening the hold of the achenes and allowing them to be carried away by the wind.

If you would like to see a microscopic view of dandilions and the achenes, seeds, and more, please visit this wonderful and fascinating page! A Close-up View of the Wildflower "Dandelion"