Overview:
Taraxacum marklundii Palmgr. is a species of the dandelion family Asteraceae.
Origin:
The plant is native to parts of Europe, specifically Sweden, where it was first described by Palmgren in 1928.
Common Names:
The species is commonly referred to as Marklund's Dandelion.
Appearance:
Taraxacum marklundii Palmgr. typically grows up to 20 centimeters in height and has multiple basal leaves that are sharply toothed with a smooth margin. The leaves form a rosette, while the flowers are borne on a hollow stem that arises from the center of the leaves. The flowers are yellow and have 12-17 ray petals that are long and narrow. The plant produces achenes that are over 7 millimeters long and contain a single seed each.
Uses:
The uses of Taraxacum marklundii Palmgr. are not well-known, but like other species of the genus Taraxacum, it is likely that some medicinal properties can be derived from it. The plant is also said to be a great source of nectar for bees and other insects.
Typical Growth Conditions for Taraxacum marklundii Palmgr.
Taraxacum marklundii Palmgr. is a species of dandelion that typically grows in regions with subarctic and alpine climate. The plant is known for its small, bright yellow flowers that bloom from early summer to the end of autumn.
Light Requirements
The plant prefers full sun exposure but can also grow in partial shade. In areas with excessively hot summers, partial shade is ideal to prevent leaf scorching.
Temperature Requirements
Taraxacum marklundii Palmgr. is adapted to grow in subarctic and alpine areas with low temperatures. The plant can tolerate temperatures as low as -20°C or lower during the winter months. During the growing season, the plant prefers temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C.
Soil Requirements
The plant grows best in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The ideal soil pH range for Taraxacum marklundii Palmgr. is 6.0 to 7.5. The plant can tolerate mildly acidic to slightly alkaline soil conditions.
It is important to note that Taraxacum marklundii Palmgr. is susceptible to root rot when grown in waterlogged soils. Therefore, it is important to ensure adequate soil drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Cultivation Methods
Taraxacum marklundii Palmgr. is commonly known as Marklund's dandelion and is an herbaceous perennial plant. It prefers a sunny location and loamy soil with good drainage for optimal growth. Marklund's dandelion can be propagated by seeds or division of roots during the fall season.
Watering Needs
The plant prefers moderate watering, but it can tolerate drought-like conditions. Overwatering can cause root rot, so make sure to let the soil dry out before watering again. During periods of high temperatures, it may need more frequent watering.
Fertilization
A well-drained, nutrient-rich soil is preferable for Taraxacum marklundii Palmgr.. During the growing season, the plant can be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer every two to three weeks.
Pruning
Marklund's dandelion doesn't require much pruning. However, to promote healthy growth, it's best to remove any spent flowers and stems. It is also a good idea to trim back the foliage during the fall season before dormancy.
Propagation of Taraxacum marklundii Palmgr.
Taraxacum marklundii Palmgr., commonly known as the Marklund's dandelion plant, can be propagated vegetatively or through seed germination.
Vegetative Propagation:
Vegetative propagation involves the use of plant parts such as leaves, roots, and stems to grow new plants. In the case of Taraxacum marklundii Palmgr., vegetative propagation can be done through root and leaf cuttings.
Root cuttings should be taken from juvenile plants, and the cuttings should be at least 2cm long. These cuttings can be grown indoors under artificial light or in greenhouses.
Leaf cuttings should be taken from young plants under sterile conditions. The leaves should be cut into small pieces and placed in sterile soil or sand for rooting.
Seed Propagation:
Seed propagation is the most common method of breeding Taraxacum marklundii Palmgr. This plant produces seeds asexually meaning that it can grow and reproduce without pollenization. The germination period of seeds ranges from 1 to 2 weeks.
The seed must be stratified at a temperature of 4°C for about a week. After stratification, the seeds should be germinated in a well-draining soil mixture. Seedling trays should be shallow for optimum growth.
The plants grown through seed propagation will need to be transplanted to individual pots for their development.
Disease Management
Taraxacum marklundii Palmgr. is susceptible to several diseases, including:
- Leaf Spot: This fungal disease causes the plant's leaves to develop brown spots with yellow margins. The disease can spread rapidly and cause severe damage to the plant.
- Mosaic Virus: This virus causes a mottled appearance on the leaves of the plant and can significantly impact its growth and productivity.
- Crown Rots: Crown rots are caused by fungi that attack the plant's crown and roots, causing the plant to wilt and die.
To manage diseases in Taraxacum marklundii Palmgr., it is essential to take preventative measures, including using high-quality soil and avoiding over-fertilization. Additionally, removing diseased plant parts and improving air circulation can help prevent fungal diseases from spreading. In severe cases, using fungicides may be necessary.
Pest Management
Several pests can attack Taraxacum marklundii Palmgr.:
- Aphids: These small insects suck sap from the plant, causing its leaves to curl and wilt. They can also transmit viruses, causing further damage to the plant.
- Leaf miners: Leaf miners are the larvae of small flies that burrow into the leaves of the plant, causing thin, white tunnels and reducing its ability to photosynthesize.
- Root Maggots: These pests are the larvae of small flies that burrow into the roots of the plant, causing wilting and yellowing of the leaves.
To manage pests in Taraxacum marklundii Palmgr., it is essential to identify the pest and take action early. For instance, manually removing aphids and leaf miners can help control their populations. In severe cases, using insecticidal soaps or neem oil may be necessary. Additionally, practicing good garden hygiene and rotating crops can help prevent pest infestations.
