About
Florets of bright yellow flowers appear from April to June, followed by seed heads (or 'clocks') that are easily dispersed on the breeze. A genus of around 250 microspecies of tap-rooted herbaceous perennials, more commonly known as dandelions. These form rosettes of long, toothed green leaves and a milky sap-producing hollow stem. Provides a good nectar source for flying insects and a larval food source fo moths.
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
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. Prefers a rich soil. Naturally found in grassy places and waste ground. 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