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 Dandelion
Taraxacum officinale

Distribution:  Widespread and abundant throughout Britain.
Habitat:   Pastures, meadows, lawns, roadsides and waste places in sunny situations.
Description:  Native perennial of short height (up to 20cm) with bright yellow sun-like flowers throughout the year, but in greatest profusion from April to June.  The flowers are followed by downy fruiting heads known as 'dandelion clocks'.  Children have long told the time by counting the number of puffs needed to blow away all the fruits on the 'dandelion clocks'!
Uses:  Dandelion drinks and broths were recommended for a variety of illnesses in the past, ranging from jaundice to consumption.  The young leaves are still used in salads and are high in vitamins A and C.  The flowers can be used to make a country wine, and the dried and ground roots can be used as a coffee substitute.

 Sowing Instructions for Seeds:  Sow seed in spring in a greenhouse or cold frame. When the seedlings are large enough to handle, prick them out into individual pots.  Plant the seedlings out into their final position in summer.