Dandelions

Dandelions are yellow flowers that grow almost everywhere. They pop up in lawns, parks, and cracks in the sidewalk. After the yellow flower fades, it turns into a ball of white fluff. When the wind blows, the fluff carries tiny seeds away to grow new plants.

Parts of a Dandelion

A dandelion has a bright yellow flower on top of a long green stem. The leaves are jagged and grow close to the ground. The name dandelion comes from French words meaning 'lion's tooth' because of the leaves. Dandelions have deep roots that go far into the soil. This helps them live through dry weather.

Uses of Dandelions

Dandelions are not just weeds. People eat the young leaves in salads. The flowers can be used to make tea or jelly. Bees love dandelions and use them to make honey in early spring. Long ago, people used dandelions as medicine to help with sickness.

Fun Facts

• One dandelion can make up to 2,000 seeds in a single season.
• Dandelion seeds can travel more than 5 miles in the wind.
• Every part of a dandelion plant can be eaten, from root to flower.

Did You Know?

Dandelions were brought to North America by settlers from Europe because they used them as food and medicine.