Red-seeded Dandelion
taraxacum erythrospermum
Also known as: ["Red-seeded Dandelion","Red-seeded Taraxacum"]
Overview
A species of dandelion with reddish seeds, native to Europe and Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","disease resistant","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Taraxacum |
| Botanical Name: | Taraxacum erythrospermum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: open garden beds or containers in temperate climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"−30–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; can tolerate poor soils but thrives with added compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when leaves appear yellow or damaged.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or diseased foliage.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily; adjust for intense summer heat by providing afternoon shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; avoid sudden exposure to prevent leaf scorch; for indoor plants, place near a south-facing window with filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf diseases.
Soil
well-drained, moderately fertile soil with neutral to slightly alkaline pH
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure good aeration; test soil pH periodically.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures, 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates frost but prefers cooler conditions; avoid extreme heat.
Monitor temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; adjust watering based on temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce feeding in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Seed or division; seeds can be sown directly in spring or fall; division is best done in early spring or fall.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Sow seeds shallowly.
- Keep moist.
- Thin seedlings as needed.
- For division, separate roots and replant immediately.
Best Time: Early spring or fall when temperatures are mild and growth is active.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions for seeds; partial shade for young plants; consistent moisture for division.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix with added perlite or sand for seedlings; for division, use standard garden soil.
Hormone
Not necessary for seeds; rooting hormone can be used for division to encourage root growth.
Timeline
Seeds germinate in 1–3 weeks; division establishes in 2–4 weeks.
Tools Needed
Hand trowel, pruners, watering can, rooting hormone (optional).
Quick Tips
Sow seeds in groups for better germination rates; water gently to avoid displacing seeds; divide plants when they become overcrowded.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead leaves at the base with clean, sharp pruners; avoid cutting into healthy growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required; focus on removing dead or damaged leaves to maintain plant health and appearance.
Tools
Hand pruners, scissors.
Checklist
Inspect plant for dead/damaged leaves; use clean tools; make precise cuts; dispose of removed foliage.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot only if the plant becomes root-bound or outgrows its container; typically every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or premature flowering in response to heat stress; browning leaf edges or leaf drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and can cause leaf discoloration; prolonged exposure may lead to root damage or death.
Solution: Provide frost protection with a cover or move to a sheltered location; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Causes wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering; may lead to dehydration and nutrient uptake issues.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicTaraxacum erythrospermum is not considered toxic to cats. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicTaraxacum erythrospermum is not considered toxic to dogs. It is not known to cause adverse effects when ingested by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicTaraxacum erythrospermum, commonly known as red-seeded dandelion, is not considered toxic to humans. It is often consumed as a food source or used in traditional medicine.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Taraxacum erythrospermum edible?
A: Yes, the leaves and roots are edible and can be used in salads or brewed as tea.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is a good source of nectar for bees and butterflies.
Q: How does it differ from common dandelion?
A: It is distinguished by its reddish seeds, while common dandelion has black seeds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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