Description
Taraxacum officinale. 1.1L coir pot.
Native to Eurasia, Dandelion is a biennial / perennial herb which has traditionally been used to treat infections, kidney and liver issues, among other things.
The flowers, leaves and roots are edible, and high in minerals and vitamins.
Dandelion wine can be made from the flowers.
The leaves have a bitter taste (the young leaves are less bitter), and can be eaten fresh or cooked.
The leaves (and to a lesser degree, the roots) are used in tea, often taken to improve general digestion.
The tap root can be roasted, ground and used as a coffee substitute.
Dandelion attracts beneficial insects and the long tap root helps bring nutrients to the surface.
The plant enjoys a full sun position in well draining soil, and should grow about 20cm high.