Dandelion (Taraxacum expallidiforme)
Care, watering, light and tips for Dandelion on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Asteraceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 0–35 °C
About Dandelion
Taraxacum expallidiforme, known as Reddish-bracted Dandelion, is a dandelion species distinguished by its reddish bracts beneath the flower. It's a low-growing perennial plant that produces classic yellow flowers and rosettes of toothed leaves. Ideal for naturalistic gardens or as part of a wildflower meadow, where its early bloom adds color.
Care tips
This species thrives in full sun to partial shade, requiring at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight for optimal flowering. It prefers well-drained soils, though it is tolerant of a wide range of soil types, including poor ones. Watering should be moderate, allowing the top layer of the substrate to dry out between waterings, and it's important to avoid waterlogging as it can lead to root rot. A common mistake is attempting to eradicate it completely, when it can be a valuable early food source for pollinators.
How to save a dying Dandelion
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or brown, wilted, lifeless leaves. Lack of flowering or weak flowers. Stunted growth.
- First aid
- Transplant to loose, rich soil. Ensure good drainage and water moderately. Remove wilted leaves and flowers to stimulate new growth.
- What kills it
- Compact, nutrient-poor soil. Over or under-watering. Herbicide application.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, it's a resilient plant. With good soil, adequate watering, and no herbicides, it will recover.