Common Dandelion (also known as Lion's Tooth, Blowball, Faceclock)
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Angiosperms, Class: Eudicots, Order: Asterales, Family: Asteraceae, Genus: Taraxacum, Species: Taraxacum officinale · Asteraceae (Compositae) - Aster, Daisy, or Sunflower family · Simple; the plant is a herbaceous perennial that grows in a basal rosette pattern. The specimen shown is the flower scape (stem).
Species
Taraxacum officinale
Leaf Type
Simple; the plant is a herbaceous perennial that grows in a basal rosette pattern. The specimen shown is the flower scape (stem).
Family
Asteraceae (Compositae) - Aster, Daisy, or Sunflower family
Shape
Oblanceolate to oblong with deeply lobed, backward-pointing (runcinate) segments, often likened to the shape of a lion's tooth.
Size
Typically 2-10 inches long and 0.5-3 inches wide; the stem shown in the image is approximately 6-8 inches long.
Margin
Deeply lobed or pinnatifid, with sharp or jagged teeth pointing toward the base (runcinate).
Arrangement
Basal rosette (all leaves radiate from the base of the plant at ground level); the flowering stem is solitary and leafless.
Rarity
Very Common; it is often considered a weed due to its prolific seeding and ability to grow in various conditions.
Color & Pattern
Bright yellow flower head composed of many ray florets; the stem is light green, transitioning to a reddish-purple hue near the base.
Venation Pattern
Pinnate midrib in leaves; the flower stem (scape) is hollow and lacks a visible vein network on its smooth surface.
Texture & Surface
Smooth (glabrous) to slightly hairy; the stem is hollow and produces a milky white latex (sap) when broken.
Description
The common dandelion features a basal rosette of deeply lobed leaves and a hollow, leafless stem topped by a single, bright yellow composite flower head. As the flower matures, it transforms into a spherical white 'puffball' of seeds, each attached to a silky pappus for wind dispersal. The plant has a thick, deep taproot.
Key Features
Hollow leafless stem (scape), bright yellow ray florets, milky white sap, and backward-pointing leaf lobes.
Habitat
Found in lawns, gardens, roadsides, disturbed areas, meadows, and pastures. Thrives in moist, sun-exposed soils but is highly adaptable.
Geographic Range
Native to Eurasia, but now naturalized globally. It is ubiquitous throughout North America, Europe, and many temperate regions.
Condition Notes
The specimen appears to be in a late-flowering or early-wilted stage; the flower head is closing or drying. General health is 'Fair' as it is a cut specimen.
Interesting Facts
The name 'Dandelion' comes from the French 'dent-de-lion', meaning 'lion's tooth'. The seeds can travel miles on the wind. Every part of the dandelion is edible.
Medicinal & Uses
Used as a diuretic and for liver digestive health. Leaves are used in salads; roots are roasted as a coffee substitute; flowers are used for dandelion wine. Warning: Avoid if allergic to ragweed.
Ecological Role
An important early-season nectar source for bees and pollinators. The deep taproot helps pull nutrients to the surface and aerate compacted soil.
Similar Species
Catsear (Hypochaeris radicata) which has branched, solid stems, and Hawkweed (Hieracium) which has hairy leaves and stems.
Foraging Tips
Look for the single, unbranched, hollow stem to distinguish it from look-alikes. Harvest leaves in early spring before flowering for the least bitter taste.
Toxicity Warning
Generally non-toxic and edible. However, the milky sap may cause contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals. Use caution if growing in areas treated with herbicides.