Taraxacum officianale

Found: in lawns, fields, and waste places throughout the northeast. It is both common and abundant.

Height: 5-46 cm (2-18 inches)

Stem: a hollow stalk that produces a milky white liquid

Leaves: jagged toothed

Flowers: yellow flower found most often from March to September.

Uses: Traditionally, the root of the dandelion has been used to make a tea that was used to treat liver, kidney, and bladder ailments. It can also be used as a tonic for digestive problems or constipation. If the root is dried, it can also be used as a weak coffee substitute. Recent experiments have shown that the root is hypoglycemic and can be used as a weak antibiotic against yeast infection. The leaves and flowers are also rich in vitamins A and C. All parts of the flower can be used as food.