Taraxacum officinale

There are many species of dandelion which doubtless absorb the expert. As far as the gardener is concerned they are common weeds of the garden who spread their seeds by means of their seed-dispensing machine - the dandelion clock. The dandelion makes a rosette of shiny green, oblong, jaggy edged lobed leaves. A succulent stalk holds the dome-shaped shaggy mop head of bright yellow petals. It is renowned as a beneficial tonic in springtime when the young leaves are served as a salad. Indeed, one of the popular names reflects the diuretic effects of overindulgence in this internal spring clean. It is a component in the old-fashioned drink 'dandelion and burdock'. The plant likes lime and sunshine. If you want to remove it, you must dig it out, root and all, or it will just regenerate! Note: this is a food source for the clouded buff moth.