Origin and Common Names
Taraxacum officinale G.H. Weber ex Wiggers ssp. vulgare (Lam.) Schinz & R. Keller, also known as common dandelion, is a herbaceous perennial plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is native to Europe, but it has naturalized throughout North America and other regions of the world. The plant received its common name from the French word "dent de lion," which means "lion's tooth," referring to the plant's deeply toothed leaves.
General Appearance
The common dandelion grows to a height of 5-40 cm and has a taproot that can extend up to 30 cm below the surface. The plant has a basal rosette of leaves with deeply cut lobes that grow up to 30 cm long. The leaves are hairless and shiny with a waxy coating on the upper surface. The plant produces a single yellow flowerhead on a hollow stem that grows up to 30 cm tall. The flowerhead consists of numerous ray flowers that are 1-2.5 cm long. After fertilization, the flowerhead develops into a globe-shaped seed head consisting of numerous achenes, each with a pappus of fine bristles that facilitate wind dispersal.
Uses
The common dandelion has a rich history of traditional medicinal uses. The plant contains various phytochemicals such as flavonoids, terpenoids, phenolic acids, and sesquiterpenes that are believed to have various health benefits. The root and leaves of the plant have been used to treat digestive disorders, liver and kidney problems, skin conditions, and inflammations. The young leaves are edible and can be used in salads or cooked like spinach. The root can be roasted and used as a coffee substitute. In addition to its medicinal and culinary uses, the plant also serves as an important source of pollen and nectar for bees and other pollinators.
Light Requirements
The Taraxacum officinale G.H. Weber ex Wiggers ssp. vulgare (Lam.) Schinz & R. Keller requires moderate to full sunlight exposure for optimum growth. Inadequate sunlight exposure may lead to stunted growth, pale foliage, and poor flowering. It is ideal to plant them in areas that receive at least six hours of full sunlight exposure daily.
Temperature Requirements
The plant thrives well in temperate regions with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 24°C. However, it can withstand extreme temperature conditions ranging from 5°C to 30°C. Temperatures below 5°C may result in slow growth and dormancy. During the cold season, it is essential to protect the plant from frost and extreme cold by covering it with mulch or plastic.
Soil Requirements
The Taraxacum officinale G.H. Weber ex Wiggers ssp. vulgare (Lam.) Schinz & R. Keller can thrive in various soil types, but it grows best in well-drained fertile loam enriched with organic matter. The plant needs proper drainage to prevent waterlogging, which may cause root rot. It can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. During planting, it is essential to loosen the soil to a depth of 30cm to promote root development and air circulation. Fertilizer application is not mandatory, but it can be beneficial for growth and productivity.
Cultivation Methods:
Taraxacum officinale G.H. Weber ex Wiggers ssp. vulgare, commonly known as the common dandelion, is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of conditions. It prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. It can grow in well-drained soil, sandy soil, and even in heavy clay soil. The plant is propagated by seeds, which can be sown in the spring or fall. For optimal growth, sow the seeds about ½ inch deep. The seedlings will appear within 7-10 days.
Watering Needs:
Dandelions have deep taproots, which allow them to tolerate dry conditions. However, it is essential to keep the soil moist during the first few weeks after planting or transplanting. Once established, dandelions require little watering unless there is a prolonged dry spell. Overwatering can cause root rot, so it is essential to ensure that the soil drains well.
Fertilization:
Dandelions are not heavy feeders and do not require fertilizer. However, if the soil is poor, you can fertilize with a balanced fertilizer once or twice during the growing season. Be sure not to over-fertilize, as this can cause the plant to produce too many leaves and not enough flowers.
Pruning:
Dandelions do not require pruning in the traditional sense. However, it is essential to remove the spent flowers as soon as they fade. This not only keeps the plant looking neat but also prevents them from going to seed too quickly. If you want to control the spread of dandelions, it is best to remove the entire plant, including the root. You can also mow the plant to reduce its height and spread.
Propagation of Taraxacum officinale G.H. Weber ex Wiggers ssp. vulgare (Lam.) Schinz & R. Keller
Taraxacum officinale, commonly known as dandelion, is an herbaceous perennial plant with a long taproot and a rosette of deeply toothed leaves. The plant produces yellow, composite flowers on hollow stems that rise above the foliage. The plant is commonly found in lawns, pastures, meadows, and waste areas throughout North America.
Propagation by Seed
Dandelion is a prolific seed producer, with each flower head capable of producing up to 100 seeds. The seeds are dispersed by wind or by attaching to animals or clothing. To propagate dandelion by seed, collect mature seed heads in the fall and allow them to dry completely. Sow the seeds in early spring by scattering them over prepared soil and lightly pressing them into the surface. Keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate and establish.
Propagation by Division
Dandelions can also be propagated by division, which entails separating the taproot and replanting the sections. This method is typically used to propagate named cultivars or to control the size of established plants. To propagate by division, dig up an established plant in the spring or fall and gently separate the taproot into sections, ensuring that each section has at least one healthy shoot. Replant the sections immediately at the same depth they were originally growing and water thoroughly.
Propagation by Root Cutting
Dandelions can also be propagated by root cuttings. This method involves taking small sections of the taproot and replanting them in soil. To propagate by root cutting, dig up an established plant and use a sharp knife to cut the taproot into 1- to 2-inch sections. Place the sections in prepared soil and water them thoroughly. Keep the soil moist until the cuttings establish and begin producing new growth.
Disease Management
Taraxacum officinale G.H. Weber ex Wiggers ssp. vulgare (Lam.) Schinz & R. Keller is generally fairly resistant to disease. However, there are a few diseases that can affect this plant.
Rust: Rust is a fungal disease that appears as rusty, reddish-brown spots on the leaves. To manage rust, remove infected leaves as soon as possible, and avoid overhead irrigation.
Crown Rot: Crown rot is caused by a fungus that attacks the crown of the plant, causing it to rot. To manage crown rot, remove infected plants and avoid planting in poorly-draining soil.
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that appears as small, dark spots on the leaves. To manage leaf spot, remove infected leaves and avoid overhead irrigation.
Pest Management
Taraxacum officinale G.H. Weber ex Wiggers ssp. vulgare (Lam.) Schinz & R. Keller is relatively pest-resistant. However, there are a few pests that may cause problems for this plant.
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong stream of water to knock them off, and apply an insecticidal soap if necessary.
Slugs and Snails: Slugs and snails can cause damage to the leaves of the plant. To manage slugs and snails, remove any debris from around the plant that may serve as a hiding place, and apply a copper sulfate-based slug and snail bait if necessary.
Root Maggots: Root maggots are the larvae of certain species of flies that feed on the roots of the plant. To manage root maggots, apply a soil insecticide to the soil around the plant before planting.
