Species false dandelion

false dandelion

Hypochaeris radicata

False Dandelion (Hypochaeris radicata) is a perennial herb native to Europe but now naturalized throughout the world. It has a basal rosette of coarse green leaves, with spreading stems that reach up to 30 cm (12 in) tall. The bright yellow flower heads are 4-6 mm (0.2-0.4 in) across and appear in loose clusters. The false dandelion can survive in most soil types, and in sun or partial shade. It is a valuable forage crop, its leaves and flowers making high-protein feed for grazing livestock. False dandelion can be an aggressive weed, it has a strong ability to compete with other species, and can spread rapidly by seed through the wind.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

5

Flowers:

Showy, Yellow Flowers In Summer

Sun:

full sun,part sun/part shade

Soil:

Rocky , gravelly , dry, Well-drained

Fruits:

Fruits In Autumn Ready In Fall

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

watering

False Dandelion thrives in average garden soil and regular watering. Water thoroughly at least once per week, taking care not to over-water the plant. If the soil appears dry, water until it begins to ooze from the drainage holes in the container. In hot, dry climates, you may need to water 2 to 3 times per week. In cooler climates or during periods of abundant rainfall, less frequent watering may be adequate. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely, as this can lead to wilting and stress in the plant.

sunlight

False Dandelion is a sun-loving plant species that thrives best when given at least 8-10 hours of direct sunlight each day. If the plant is grown in full sun most of the day, it can survive with as few as 6 hours of direct sunlight. It is important to note that adequate indirect light should also be available for at least 6 hours of the day for optimal growth. Strong sun might scorch the False Dandelion, so it is best grown in a partially shaded spot in hot, dry climates.

pruning

False dandelion, or Hypochaeris radicata, should be pruned in late winter or early spring. This is the best time to trim the plant back to encourage lush foliage without risking losing flowers. Prune to just above the ground, cutting all the foliage back. Cutting too much can damage the plant, but you should be able to take off at least a 1/3 of the foliage without causing too much harm.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Hypochaeris radicata typically starts flowering in April.

Harvest Fruit

The harvesting of Hypochaeris radicata typically begins in June and continues through August.

Hardiness Map