Taraxacum brassicifolium

Kitag.

Asteraceae Edible: Flowers, Leaves, Root

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Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew

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Moscow State University (copyright is managed by Dr. Alexey P. Seregin)

Summary

A perennial with a deep taproot, establishing in sandy, loamy, or clay soils with good drainage. Hermaphroditic and self-fertile, insect-pollinated. Prefers moist soil and mildly acidic to mildly alkaline conditions. Adapts to semi-shaded woodlands or full sun exposure.

Description

Edible Uses

Leaves can be eaten raw or cooked. The following uses are also likely applicable to this species, though no specific records confirm them: roots can be cooked; flowers can be eaten raw or cooked, with unopened buds suitable for fritters; the whole dried plant makes a tea, as do the flowers, leaves, and roots individually. The root is dried and roasted to make a coffee substitute.

Traditional Uses

The leaves are eaten raw or cooked.

This uses section is brief — help expand it

Medicinal Uses

None known.

Distribution

It is a temperate plant.

Where It Grows

Asia, China,

Cultivation

We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in many parts of the country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Prefers a well-drained humus-rich soil in full sun or light shade. Many species in this genus produce their seed apomictically. This is an asexual method of seed production where each seed is genetically identical to the parent plant. Occasionally seed is produced sexually, the resulting seedlings are somewhat different to the parent plants and if these plants are sufficiently distinct from the parents and then produce apomictic seedlings these seedlings are, in theory at least, a new species.

Propagation

Sow seed in spring in a cold frame, either surface-sowing or covering only very lightly, and keep the compost moist. Germination should occur within two weeks. Prick seedlings into individual pots — using relatively deep pots to accommodate the taproot — when large enough to handle, and plant out in early summer. Division can be done in early spring as the plant comes into growth.