Dandelion Weed (Taraxacum officinale)
Common Names
- Common Dandelion
- Lion’s Tooth
- Blowball
- Puffball
- Swine’s Snout
Description
Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is well known for its bright yellow flowers and distinctive seed heads that disperse with the wind. Native to Eurasia, dandelions are now widespread across temperate regions worldwide. The plant thrives in disturbed soils, lawns, roadsides, and meadows, often considered a weed due to its persistence and rapid spread.
Identification
Leaves & Stems
- Leaves are deeply lobed, forming a basal rosette.
- Edges of leaves are serrated, resembling lion’s teeth (hence the name "dandelion" from the French dent de lion).
- Leaves exude a milky sap when broken.
- Stems are hollow, unbranched, and also contain milky latex.
Flowers
- Bright yellow, composite flowers composed of numerous tiny florets.
- Blooms appear in early spring and persist throughout summer.
- Each flower head is borne on a single, leafless stem.
Seeds & Reproduction
- Produces a round, white seed head (pappus), commonly known as a "blowball" or "puffball."
- Each seed is attached to a feathery parachute-like structure that aids wind dispersal.
Spread
Dandelions spread primarily through their airborne seeds, which can travel great distances. The plant can also regenerate from its deep taproot if it is not entirely removed. It thrives in a variety of soil conditions, especially in disturbed areas, and can quickly colonize lawns, fields, and roadsides.
Similar Species
- Catsear (Hypochaeris radicata) – Often mistaken for dandelion but has hairy leaves and branched flower stems.
- Sow Thistle (Sonchus spp.) – Has similar yellow flowers but grows taller with spiny, more jagged leaves.
- Hawkweed (Hieracium spp.) – Features similar flower heads but has multiple flower stems per plant.