Dandelion

Leontodon taraxacum L.

Synonym: Taraxacum officinale Weber.

Other common names: Blowball, cankerwort, doon-head-clock, fortune teller, horse gowan, Irish daisy, yellow gowan, one-o'clock.

Habitat and range: With the exception, possibly, of a few localities in the south, the dandelion is at home almost everywhere in the United States, being a familiar weed in meadows and waste places, and especially in lawns.

Description: The dandelion is so well known as a widely distributed weed that a detailed description of it is unnecessary. Its golden-yellow flowers, followed by the round, fluffy, seed heads, are a familiar sight in lawns, meadows, and along roadsides. The entire plant contains a white, milky juice. In spring the young tender leaves are much used for table greens. The plant has a large, thick, fleshy taproot which extends well into the ground.

Uses: Historically, dandelion was most commonly used to treat liver diseases, kidney diseases, and spleen problems. Less commonly, dandelion was used to treat digestive problems and skin conditions. Today, dandelion is used by some as a liver or kidney "tonic," as a diuretic, and for minor digestive problems.