Dandelion (Taraxacum herae)
Care, watering, light and tips for Dandelion on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Asteraceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 0–35 °C
About Dandelion
Taraxacum herae, a close relative of the common dandelion, is a small perennial herbaceous plant featuring deeply toothed basal leaves and bright yellow flowers clustered in solitary heads. Although often considered a 'weed', its blossoms add a vibrant splash of color to meadows, informal gardens, and pots, and serve as an early nectar source for pollinators. Its compact size and resilient nature make it suitable for rock gardens or as part of a wildflower meadow.
Care tips
This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and adapts to a wide range of soil types, though it prefers well-drained, slightly moist substrates. Watering should be moderate, allowing the topsoil to dry out between waterings, and it's quite drought-tolerant once established. A common mistake is attempting complete eradication, thereby losing its ecological and ornamental value; instead, its spread can be managed without full removal. It does not require regular fertilization and propagates easily by seed.
How to save a dying Dandelion
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or brown, wilted, lifeless leaves. Lack of flowering or dry flowers.
- First aid
- Transplant to fresh, well-draining soil. Ensure full sun exposure and moderate watering if soil is dry. Remove heavily damaged leaves.
- What kills it
- Excessive shade or constant waterlogging. It doesn't tolerate heavy, compacted soils.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, it's a very resilient plant. With sun and good drainage, it will recover quickly.