
Dandelion
Often unappreciated because it is considered a weed by some, dandelion has many uses as a culinary and medicinal herb. The entire plant is edible and can be boiled for 5 to 10 minutes and served as a vegetable. The leaves are best when small and blanched or when collected before flowering occurs. The flowers make a pleasant nibble and add color to salads. Baked roots are ground to make a coffee substitute. (Taraxacum officinale)
Medicinal: As a diuretic, dandelion stimulates the kidney without causing loss of potassium. As an hepatic and cholagogue it is used for liver and gall bladder congestion.
Growing instructions: Perennial in zones 3-10. Germination at 60°F in 7-21 days. Germination is light dependent. Direct sow or transplant in spring through fall. Space 6-12" apart. Full sun. Grows 2"-18" tall.
Packet: 0.15 g - approximately 238 seeds