Dandelion - Taraxacum

The Dandelion is a fascinating plant with a rich, cultural history, particularly as a major irritant of lawn owners in American suburbs. They are native to Europe and Asia, and it's believed they were introduced to the United States via the Mayflower, where people brought them for their medicinal uses. The plant is actually a non-native in North America, but has become naturalized across much of the United States and Canada where it is classified as an invasive species only in Alaska and Oregon. The fluffy, yellow blooms are undeniably gorgeous, and can be found growing just about anywhere – truly, anywhere!

Plant Details - Dandelion

Family: Asteraceae

Light Requirement: Full sun, Partial sun

Water Needs: Moderate

Height: 2-6 in

Spread: 6 in-2 ft

Growth Rate: Rapid

Soil Preference: Well drained, nutrient rich

Bloom Time: Early spring

Flower Color: Yellow, White

Wildlife Value: Bees, Other pollinators

Notable Characteristics - Dandelion

The common Dandelion gets its name for its numerous thin, jagged yellow petals that resemble a lion's tooth, or from the French, ‘dent-de-lion’. The fluffy, yellow flower heads sit atop a hollow stem that secretes a milky liquid when broken, and the narrow, toothed leaves grow straight up from its basal rosette and are not attached to the stem. The flowers are followed by the distinct spherical seed heads. Each seed has a white parachute of feathered hairs which help it catch the breeze and spread seeds far away by riding the wind. Dandelions are also completely edible. Their greens are delicious raw or cooked, the flowers can be brewed into tea or wine, or eaten raw or cooked. There are endless culinary possibilities using this special plant growing just outside your window. It has medicinal uses too including lowering cholesterol and blood sugar or fighting inflammation.

Landscape and Maintenance

They have only a light, floral fragrance, but their nectar still attracts bees and other pollinators, as does its bright yellow color. The yellow plant can be an important source of food for bees and insects in the early spring when few flowers are yet in bloom. These plants are a remarkably rapid self-seeder, with one seed head containing sometimes up to 20,000 seeds, which contributes to its status as a garden and lawn annoyance. To enjoy the plentiful yellow blossoms without them taking over your garden, try deadheading just before the flower goes to seed. Deadhead too early, and the Dandelion will simply regenerate a new flower! This abundant non-native is a very useful, special and beautiful plant. So don’t let the lawn lovers fool you, dandelions are well worth a spot in your garden!

This Is How Your Plants Will Look upon Delivery

Bloom Season

Spring

Bloom/Foliage Color

Yellow

Height at Maturity

Under 12"

Care

Dandelion plants are hardy and adaptable. Water often to keep the soil consistently moist. They flourish in well-drained dirt but can handle a range of conditions. Regularly remove weeds around them to ensure they get enough nutrients. Harvest leaves when young for the best taste.

Plant Reproduction

Dandelion Plant spreads by seeds and by new shoots from roots or root segments

Shipping date depends on the date displayed and chosen when you order from the product's page.

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