Dandelion
taraxacum campylodes
Also known as: ["Dandelion","Lion's Tooth","Puffball"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with bright yellow flowers and deeply lobed leaves, commonly found in lawns and meadows.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","disease resistant","deer resistant","pet-friendly","cold hardy","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","edible fruits","medicinal use","culinary herb"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Taraxacum |
| Botanical Name: | Taraxacum campylodes |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden beds, lawns, or containers in temperate regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°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 prefers enriched conditions.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every few months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead, yellowing, or diseased foliage.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; tolerates full sun in cooler climates but prefers partial shade in hot regions.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid direct midday sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in dormant periods
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering.
Soil
well-drained, moderately fertile soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not compacted; avoid heavy clay mixes; maintain consistent moisture levels.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F or 10–24°C); thrives in spring and fall; sensitive to extreme heat.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; maintain consistent cool conditions; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in fall and winter
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Seed or division; seeds can be sown directly in spring or fall; division is best done in early spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Prepare medium.
- Sow seeds or divide clumps.
- Keep moist.
- Provide warmth and light.
- Transplant once established.
Best Time: Early spring or fall when temperatures are mild and growth is active.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light for seeds; similar conditions for division.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix with added perlite or sand for seeds; moist peat or sand for division.
Hormone
Not necessary for seeds; rooting hormone can aid division if roots are damaged.
Timeline
Seeds germinate in 1–2 weeks; division establishes in 2–4 weeks.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, trowel, pruners, rooting hormone (optional), mister.
Quick Tips
Sow seeds shallowly; divide carefully to avoid root damage; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip leaves at the base with clean tools; avoid cutting into healthy growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Pruning shears, scissors, or a sharp knife.
Checklist
Inspect plant; sanitize tools; remove damaged leaves; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for rejuvenation.
Checklist
Check root health; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
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.
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 for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or premature flowering in response to stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to frost damage in freezing conditions.
Solution: Protect from frost with a cover; move indoors in freezing temperatures; ensure good air circulation to prevent mold.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may be reduced; growth can become leggy.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicTaraxacum campylodes is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not pose a significant risk to felines when ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicTaraxacum campylodes is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant is not known to cause adverse effects when ingested by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicTaraxacum campylodes, commonly known as a dandelion species, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It has been used historically in culinary and medicinal applications.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Taraxacum campylodes edible?
A: Yes, the leaves, flowers, and roots are edible and can be used in salads, teas, and other culinary preparations.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is a valuable early-season food source for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Is it considered a weed?
A: Yes, it is often classified as a weed due to its aggressive growth and persistence in lawns and gardens.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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