Dandelion
Scientific Name: Taraxacum officinale
Category: plant
Brief Description
A common perennial herbaceous plant known for its bright yellow flower heads that turn into white, spherical seed heads.
Characteristics
Features a basal rosette of deeply lobed leaves, hollow flower stems containing a milky white sap, and bright yellow composite flower heads made entirely of ray florets.
Habitat
Found in lawns, fields, disturbed soil, roadsides, and gardens worldwide.
When to Find It
Blooms primarily in spring and early summer, but can flower sporadically throughout the growing season.
Conservation Status
N/A
Ecological Role
Provides an important early-season food source for bees and other pollinators.
Easily Confused With
Cat's-ear (Hypochaeris radicata) and Hawkweed (Hieracium), which also have yellow daisy-like flowers but often possess branching stems or hairy leaves.
Observation Tips
Look in sunny areas with short grass or open ground; observe closely to see intricate ray florets.
Interesting Facts
Every part of the dandelion is edible and useful, from its roots to its flowers, and its seeds are easily carried long distances by the wind.