Dandelion
taraxacum rubicundum
Also known as: ["lion's tooth","canadian dandelion"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with bright yellow flowers and deeply lobed leaves, often considered a weed but valued for its edible and medicinal properties.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","medicinal use","culinary herb","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Taraxacum |
| Botanical Name: | Taraxacum rubicundum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in an open, sunny area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°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 added organic matter; can tolerate poor soils but thrives with enrichment.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed throughout the growing season; remove spent flowers to promote continuous blooming.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on selective removal rather than heavy cutting.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate the plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-drained, moderately fertile soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Test soil pH annually; amend with organic matter in spring; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates frost but may struggle in extreme heat.
Monitor temperature fluctuations; adjust care based on seasonal changes; protect from sudden temperature drops.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options for gentle feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; seeds can also be used but may result in variable traits.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting; use a mild rooting hormone powder.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead or damaged leaves at the base; pinch back stems to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or yellowing leaves to maintain plant health and appearance; encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools before use; prune in the morning; dispose of pruned material away from the plant.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the container; beneficial for rejuvenation.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in shade for a day.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure drainage holes are clear.
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 feels 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; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or premature flowering in response to stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf discoloration; prolonged cold can damage roots or stunt development.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; avoid overwatering in cold conditions; move potted plants to a sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; flowering may be reduced; growth may become leggy.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer label for NPK ratio; water plant before fertilizing; apply evenly around the root zone.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during the growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicTaraxacum rubicundum is not considered toxic to cats. Like dogs, cats may occasionally ingest small amounts of this plant without adverse effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicTaraxacum rubicundum is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant is often found in lawns and gardens and does not pose a significant risk to canine health when ingested in small quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicTaraxacum rubicundum, commonly known as a type of dandelion, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It has been traditionally used in culinary and medicinal applications due to its nutritional and health benefits.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Taraxacum rubicundum edible?
A: Yes, all parts of the plant are edible, including leaves, flowers, and roots, often used in salads, teas, and traditional medicine.
Q: How can I control dandelions in my lawn?
A: Dandelions can be controlled by hand-pulling, using herbicides, or by improving lawn health to outcompete them.
Q: Does Taraxacum rubicundum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is a valuable early-season food source for bees and other pollinators.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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