This is one of the most common spring flowers around the world and at Breeches it appears everywhere as soon as Spring is with us. The narrow leaves with square edges gave it the French name of “Dent-de-lion” or “Lion’s tooth”. Centuries ago. The plant is considered by most lawn owners an invasive plant that destroys most lawns. However we cannot forget the high values that the Dandelion brings to most uncultivated lands:
1.- It has very deep roots and therefore it softens the soil.
2.- It goes so deep underground that it brings calcium to its leaves and therefore to the soil improving acidic soils.
3.- The flower can be used as a salad addition and many people enjoy its tasty flavor.
4- Insects like the nectar from dandelions. These insects are beneficial to your environment.
Once the petals are gone a sphere of seeds appears and children blow it in the air for fun.
Please do not confuse a Dandelion with Coltsfoot, also yellow and similar appearance but not the same flower.
