Dandelion Information

Dandelion Leaves

The foliage of the dandelion plant form a circular arrangement of leaves, called a basal rosette, around the base where it emerges from the ground. The leaves are more narrow at the base and broad towards the tip, and are bright green in color. Dandelion leaves grow tolengths between 2 to 16 inches (5-40 cm), with about 8 inches (20 cm) being the average length of most. The basal seed leaves have a midvein (main or central vein along the leaf) with a gland at the lead tip.

The first and next few leaves are oval to oblong shaped, and about 3/8 inch (1 cm) long, tapering at the base, and have irregular, jagged tooth-shaped edges, hence the root meaning of its name. Later leaves are more elongated and widest near the tip with gradually taoering bases. These later leaves soon develop the saw-toothed edges and rosette arrangement typical of the mature plant.

Dandelion greens are the an extremely nutritious leafy vegetable, often used for Salads. The green leaves also make a great spring tonic, and are rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Dandelion leaves are similar in appearance to chicory leaves, and the plant itself resembles a few other plant species. The mature leaves of the dandelion plant, along with the stems and roots of the plant, also contain a milky-white sticky sap, and this substance is known as latex and has potential use in industry as a substitute for rubber.

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Dandelion Seedling

Mature/Adult Plant

For more information about the dandelion, check out the dandelion factoids section,
or explore some unique dandelion folklore, myths and legends.