Dandelion (Taraxacum omissum)
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 omissum, commonly known as the Baltic dandelion, is a robust perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is characterized by its large, vibrant yellow flowers held aloft on hollow stems, and its lobed leaves arranged in a basal rosette. While often considered a 'weed,' it can add a wild and cheerful touch to naturalized meadows or sunny roadside edges.
Native range
Europe
Care tips
It prefers full sun to partial shade exposure and adapts to a wide range of soils, though it favors well-drained and slightly alkaline ones. It is very drought-tolerant once established, but occasional watering during very dry periods will promote flowering. A common mistake is attempting to eradicate it completely, as it is very persistent; instead, its spread can be controlled by cutting flowers before they form seeds. It does not require additional fertilization, as it can thrive in poor soils.
How to save a dying Dandelion
- Warning signs
- Yellowing or wilting leaves, soft or drooping stems, sparse or no flowering.
- First aid
- Transplant to better-draining soil if waterlogged, or water if soil is dry and hard. Protect from intense direct sun.
- What kills it
- Overwatering leading to root rot, or extreme prolonged drought. Also soil compaction.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, it often recovers quickly if the cause is corrected promptly. They are very resilient.