Dandelion

Description:

Perennial, low growing plant. Leaves are long, pliable, and deeply toothed, growing from a single rosette. Bright yellow, sun ray flowers grow on a hollow stem. Fleshy taproot.

Habitat:

Sun. Not fussy about location, though if you are raising them, they grow sweeter leaves and roots in nitrogen rich, slightly damp soil.

Notes:

It's not just a weed. Originally from Asia, it was probably introduced into European medicine by the Arabs, who were writing about its virtues in the 10th century. It became an official European apothecary herb in the 16th century. It has many medicinal uses, and is also a nutritious potherb. The young leaves are richer in vitamin A than carrots. The root can be roasted to make a coffee-like tea or to extend coffee. The buds can be fried in butter... Explore the possibilities.