Are dandelions beautiful? Should we plant them in our gardens on purpose? What other spring flower could have such delicate and numerous petals in such a happy yellow color?
In his encyclopedia, The New York Botanical Garden Illustrated Encyclopedia of Horticulture, 1981, T. H. Everett suggests that we might plant dandelions if they “were less common, less prone to establish themselves where they were not wanted.” He continues, “Many a rare primrose and other recipients of assiduous attentions of gardeners have less to offer in beauty and brilliance than the humble despised dandelion.” Dandelions native to Japan can have white flowers with yellow centers which Everett calls “a most attractive combination,” and pale yellow flowers. Pink or “purplish” flowers also exist. Dandelions can be grown for their edible “greens,” and dandelion tea is said to help with digestion.
How could one incorporate dandelions into the garden? Would the design might have to show some intention, like in a decorative planter? Could it be paired with late blooming tulips or daffodils? Perhaps also in yellow? One could perhaps “transplant” existing dandelions this way. Neighbors might like it if the dandelion planting was deadheaded however, to prevent the spread of the seeds. But what nice seeds it has! And what else besides Taraxacum officinale could invite a hundred wishes? You might wish for more dandelions, but you’d blow away the seeds, but maybe they will plant in spite.
Sources:
The New York Botanical Garden Illustrated Encyclopedia of Horticulture, 1981