Red-seeded Dandelion (Taraxacum erythrospermum)

Red-seeded Dandelion

Taraxacum erythrospermum

Its golden blooms glow like tiny suns across meadows. Herbaceous perennial; common name: red-seeded dandelion.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; thrives in open, unshaded meadow areas
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Watering Water deeply when the top 2 cm of soil dries out; tolerates short periods of drought
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Temperature Cold hardy to subzero temperatures; withstands mild summer heat without stress
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Basal rosette of deeply lobed, lanceolate leaves with sharply toothed margins
  • Flower: Bright yellow composite flower heads 2–4 cm in diameter
  • Seed: Reddish-brown achenes topped with white feathery pappus for wind dispersal
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist during active growth periods

Fertilization

No regular fertilization required. Low-nutrient soil supports healthy growth without supplemental feeding

Eggshell powder topdressing:Sprinkle a thin layer of crushed, dried eggshell powder around the rosette base; avoid direct contact with leaves to prevent burning
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent flower heads to limit excessive self-seeding if desired
  • Trim yellowing or damaged leaves to maintain a tidy rosette
  • Cut back entire plant to ground level after flowering to encourage fresh leaf growth
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic; no adverse effects from ingestion

Humans: No known toxic effects; leaves and flowers are edible for humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Edible leaves for salads; flowers for teas and garnishes; traditional medicinal uses for digestive support