common dandelion species

Taraxacum officinale, the common dandelion (often simply called "dandelion"), is a flowering herbaceous perennial plant of the family Asteraceae (Compositae).
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Taraxacum officinale
Family:	Asteraceae
Tribe:	Cichorieae
Genus:	Taraxacum
Species:	T. officinale

How many species of dandelions are there?

Description. Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale ) is a common meadow herb of the Asteraceae or sunflower family. There are about 100 species of dandelion, and all are beneficial.

Are there 2 types of dandelions?

Common Types of Dandelion Plants

Red-seeded dandelion (Taraxacum erythrospermum) is similar to and often mistaken for the common dandelion, but red-seeded dandelion has reddish stems. ... Red-seeded dandelion is thought to be a variety of Taraxacum laevigatum (rock dandelion).

Is common dandelion a invasive species?

Although Katmai has multiple species of native dandelions, the common dandelion is a threatening invasive in the park. ... Common dandelions, native to Europe and Asia, produce many wind dispersed seeds that easily spread over large areas.

What part of the dandelion is poisonous?

Almost all parts of the dandelion are edible and nutritious. Avoid the flower stems, as they have a white, sticky 'latex' in them that has a bit of a laxative effect. :) Leaves can be eaten raw or as cooked greens.

Can I eat dandelions from my yard?

How to Eat Dandelions. Yes, you can eat dandelions that grow wild in your yard. Remember, avoid any dandelions that have been sprayed with fertilizer or any other toxic sprays.

What is it called when a dandelion turns white?

Dandelions, of course! A yard full of golden dandelions in bloom can be a gorgeous sight. Eventually, all those beautiful flowers eventually turn to white globes of exposed seeds that are often called "puffballs."

Are dandelions noxious weeds?

For example, dandelion is a non-native, invasive plant. However, it is so widespread, it will never be eradicated or adequately controlled within the state. Therefore, it is not on the noxious weed list.

How long does a dandelion live?

Individual plants may survive for 10 to 13 years in undisturbed sites. Dandelion seeds can form a relatively persistent seedbank. Seed in soil has a half-life of 3 months.

Who should avoid taking dandelion?

Do not use dandelion if you are taking a blood thinner, such as warfarin. You should also avoid dandelion if you have gallbladder problems, have diabetes or are taking medicine to control blood sugar levels, or are taking a diuretic.

What is another name for dandelion?

Other Names:

Lentodon taraxacum, bitterwort, blow-ball, cankerwort, clockflower, common dandelion, Irish daisy, lion's tooth, piss-in-bed, pissinlit, priest's crown, puffball, swine's snout, telltime, yellow gowan.

Why are dandelions bad?

Though classed as a weed, the dandelion, a member of the daisy family, isn't noxious—defined as causing a threat ecologically, economically or to public health. Instead, the plant's biggest fault is that it spreads easily through the seeds carried on the wind by its trademark gray fluff.

Why you should keep dandelions?

Dandelions are good for your lawn. Their wide-spreading roots loosen hard-packed soil, aerate the earth and help reduce erosion. The deep taproot pulls nutrients such as calcium from deep in the soil and makes them available to other plants. Dandelions actually fertilize the grass.

Are dandelions edible for humans?

From root to flower, dandelion are highly nutritious plants, loaded with vitamins, minerals and fiber. Dandelion greens can be eaten cooked or raw and serve as an excellent source of vitamins A, C and K. They also contain vitamin E, folate and small amounts of other B vitamins (1).

How do I permanently get rid of dandelions?

They are difficult to completely eliminate, and the entire plant (root and all) of the dandelion needs to be removed or they can grow right back. To rid your lawn of dandelions, use a product such as Scotts® Weed B Gon® MAX. Apply it to the dandelions to kill them without harming the lawn.

What sickness can dandelion cure?

In traditional Chinese and Native American medicine, dandelion root has long been used to treat stomach and liver conditions. Herbalists today believe that it can aid in the treatment of many ailments, including acne, eczema, high cholesterol, heartburn, gastrointestinal disorders, diabetes, and even cancer.

Can you get sick from eating dandelions?

When taken by mouth: Dandelion is LIKELY SAFE for most people when taken by mouth in the amounts commonly found in food. ... Taking dandelion by mouth might cause allergic reactions, stomach discomfort, diarrhea, or heartburn in some people.

Are dandelion stalks poisonous?

Consuming dandelion is generally very safe, although some people may be allergic to the plant, and patients with gall-bladder conditions and gallstones should talk to a doctor before ingesting it.

Should I kill dandelions?

Removing the dandelion's entire tap root is essential! If you remove just the dandelion flower and plant from the surface of the soil a new plant will grow. Even removing a couple inches of root won't kill it. Dandelions can easily reproduce from the remaining root.

What are the side effects of using dandelion?

Side effects of Taraxacum officinale are abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, heartburn, increased heart rate, bruising and bleeding, excessive urination, and increased potassium levels (hyperkalemia).

How do you prepare dandelions to eat?

Cooking dandelions eliminates some of the bitterness. First boil the greens for about 5 minutes, then transfer to a pan with hot olive oil and garlic, and sautee for 3-5 minutes. Eat as is or add to other dishes like pasta or scrambled eggs.