About
This evergreen herbaceous perennial with upright purple stems and upright or horizontal dark green basal foliage growing from a main taproot. Considered a weed in some situations, the leaves, flowers and roots can be used in herbal medicine or as food, and the flowers attract pollinators. Yellow flower heads change into silvery, wispy, tufted seed heads or 'dandelion clocks' which disperse in the wind.
About the genus
Taraxacum are a large genus of herbaceous perennial plants native to temperate areas of the Northern Hemisphere. Leaves are around 5 to 25cm long and the yellow to orange flower heads open during the day and close at night.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitTufted
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1 year
Suggested usesWildlife gardens
Care notes
CultivationHappy in a wide range of conditions and found naturally in grassy places and waste ground. A valuable plant for wildlife, providing pollen, nectar and seeds over a long period. Good in a species-rich lawn, or out-of-the-way places, it may be unwelcome on gravel paths and fine lawns. For more information see dandelion, and our video Why dandelions matter
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed. Seeds freely
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free