Found in open fields and woodland edges, this plant grows in the eastern regions of North America. When you can identify it, please leave a comment with the common name, scientific name and any personal story you may have about the plant.
Flower
A portion of the flower arrangement at the top of a leafless stalk
Plant in bloom
Lower portion of plant with leaves, and flower stalk from center
Leaves
ANSWER (subsequently added to this post to facilitate the “search” function for these images): Rattlesnake weed (Hieracium venosum)
Hieracium venosum known as Rattlesnakeweed or Veiny Hawkweed around here (North Georgia) where I’ve seen in bloom on roadside embankments in April-May.
Joan Wins!……Hieracium venosum….Rattlesnake Weed. I used to have one, but it died……
Indeed, this is Rattlesnake weed (Hieracium venosum). It’s a tricky plant to photograph (and keep most of the plant in focus) since its flowers wave so high above the red-veined basal leaves.