Common Dandelion

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinalis agg.)

The common dandelion (Taraxacum sect. Ruderalia) is a group of very similar and closely related plant species in the genus Dandelion (Taraxacum) from the family of daisies (Asteraceae).

Usually these plants are simply called dandelions, whereby there is danger of confusion with the genus dandelion (Leontodon).

The dandelion is a very widespread perennial plant of herbaceous growth. It reaches a growth height of usually 30 to 40 cm and has a long, fleshy tap root. The whole plant contains plenty of bitter tasting latex, which turns brown when exposed to air.

The leaves are in a rosette, the flowers are in a basket, which stands on a hollow shaft. The characteristic fruits with their umbrellas are spread very effectively by the wind.

The determination of Taraxacum species is very problematic. Taraxacum officinale is a group of species whose research has not yet been completed: due to its great variety of forms, specialists distinguish several small and subspecies.

Occurrence of the dandelion

Everyone knows the dandelion of meadows and roadsides from the plain to the mountains. Nutrient-rich locations are preferred throughout, which leads to a mass development in the meadows in case of overfertilization! This can be observed almost everywhere today.

The dandelion is a very important bee pastureHere in Austria, we call our fresh, natural milk for our cheese production hay milk (hay mild standard) - in Germany it is different. » More info due to its early flowering periodThe milk period is also called the lactation period. It is the time when farm animals such as cows, sheep or goats keep milk for milk production. » More info.

Effect of dandelion

From the flowers a good tasting syrup can be obtained. The lettuce from the young stung leaf rosettes is very popular. In the post-war period the roasted roots were used as a substitute for coffee.

The tannins contained in all parts have a digestive and diuretic effect, so the dandelion is also used medically for gall and liver diseases. It provides a feed low in crude fibre and rich in proteinCasein is a constituent of the protein (protein) of cow's milk, which is obtained for cheese production. » More info.