Dandelion – the easy-to-identify (and find) edible plant

Dandelion plant (Taraxacum officinale)

Many are surprised to find that the Dandelion plant is edible.  The Dandelion grows from unbranched taproots and produces more than 10 stems on each plant.  The stems, which are sparsely covered with short hairs, are slightly purplish and produce flowerheads that are typically taller than the foliage.  Dandelion leaves have a jagged edge, grow close to the ground, and are seldom more than 20 centimeters (8 inches) long. The flowers are bright yellow.

There are several dandelion species.

Where to find Dandelion plants in the wild

Dandelions grow in open, sunny locations throughout the Northern Hemisphere, in southern Africa, Australia, and many other parts of the world. Look for dandelion plants in these locations:

1. Fields and meadows: Dandelions are commonly found in fields and meadows. Look for open areas with lots of sun exposure, as this is where they thrive.
2. Roadsides and ditches: Dandelions can also be found along roadsides and in ditches. Be sure to avoid areas that may have been sprayed with pesticides or herbicides.
3. Parks and gardens: Dandelions can often be found in parks and gardens, especially in areas that receive a lot of foot traffic.
4. Woodland edges: Dandelions can also be found along the edges of woodlands, where they can get enough sunlight to grow.

Edible parts of the Dandelion plant

All parts are edible (including the flowers). Eat the leaves (called dandelion greens) raw or cooked. They taste a bit like mustard greens. Boil the roots as a vegetable. Roasted roots and grounds are a good coffee substitute.  For use in salads, greens should be harvested from new plants while still small and tender, before the first flower emerges. Larger greens tend to be tougher and more bitter and are better suited for cooking.

Dandelions have long been used as a liver tonic and diuretic. In addition, the roots contain inulin and levulin, starchlike substances that may help balance blood sugar, as well as bitter taraxacin, which stimulates digestion. Dandelions are high in vitamins A and C, calcium, potassium, and have more iron than spinach.

Other uses for the Dandelion plant

Use the white juice in the flower stems as glue and as a mosquito repellent.  In some places the milk is used to treat warts. The flowers of dandelion plants can be used to create a natural yellow dye. The dye can be used to color fabrics, yarn, and even Easter eggs. Dandelion leaves can be crushed and rubbed on the skin to repel mosquitoes.