clipart dandelion seeds

Dandelion Information


Dandelion Roots

dandelion taproots in the ground The dandelion grows from unbranched taproots that can be as thick as 1/2 inch in the largest specimens. The taproot is deep, twisted, and brittle, and usually extends about 6 to 18 inches underground. The buds sprout from the upper part of the root. The plant produces 1-10 or more stems that are typically 5 to 40 cm tall, some even growing as tall as 70 cm in height. The stems of the dandelion plant are glabrous or sparsely covered with short hairs, and often have a purplish colored tint. The stems produce flower heads that are held as tall or taller than the foliage. When trying to weed a garden of dandelions, the deep roots must be removed completely since just a small portion left will cause an entire new dandelion plant to regenerate.

The taproot of the dandelion is thick and fleshy with many branched crowns. All parts of the dandelion plant are filled with a sticky, milky-white sap that is often referred to as 'dandelion milk'. The sap is bitter and slightly odorous. The dandelion sap also has Medicinal qualities and is useful for treating skin infections and other external ailments. The milky white substance that the dandelion produces is called latex, which is similar in consistancy to rubber and has many uses in industry. The purpose of the latex prevents insects from feeding on the plant, and also helps the plant to prevent moisture loss by sealing any punctures.

Dandelion roots contain many vitamins and minerals and are useful for Food and Medicine. The roots of the dandelion are often used as an Herbal Tea, and the ground roots can also roasted and used as a caffein-free substitute for coffee. Dandelion root is also used to detoxify the liver and gallbladder. The dandelion taproot also contains the sugar inulin, (not insulan), which is a naturally occurring dietary fiber known as fructan.

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Dandelion Habitat

Dandelion Seedling



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