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Description
Taraxacum Obovatum, commonly known as the obovate-leaved dandelion, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in various habitats such as meadows, fields, lawns, and waste areas. The plant grows up to 30 cm in height and has deeply lobed leaves that are obovate in shape. The flowers are bright yellow and bloom in the spring and summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Taraxacum |
Appearance
Taraxacum Obovatum has deeply lobed leaves that are obovate in shape, meaning they are wider towards the top and narrower towards the base. The leaves can grow up to 20 cm in length and are arranged in a basal rosette. The plant produces a single stem that can grow up to 30 cm in height and bears a bright yellow flower head that is about 2.5 cm in diameter. The flower head is composed of numerous ray flowers, which are strap-like petals that radiate from the center of the head.
Care Guide
Taraxacum Obovatum is a hardy plant that is easy to grow and care for. It is tolerant of a wide range of soil types and can grow in full sun to partial shade. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:- Water: Taraxacum Obovatum prefers moist soil but can also tolerate drought. Water the plant regularly during dry periods.- Fertilization: The plant does not require much fertilization. A light application of balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote growth.- Soil: The plant can grow in a wide range of soil types but prefers well-draining soil.- Sunlight: Taraxacum Obovatum can grow in full sun to partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Taraxacum Obovatum is not susceptible to many pests or diseases. However, it can be affected by the following:- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the leaves and cause them to curl or yellow. Spray the plant with insecticidal soap to control the infestation.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and spray the plant with a fungicide.- Root rot: This disease can be caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil. Make sure the soil is well-draining and reduce watering if necessary.
Habitat
Taraxacum Obovatum is native to North America and can be found in various habitats such as meadows, fields, lawns, and waste areas. The plant prefers moist soil and can grow in full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Taraxacum Obovatum edible?
A: Yes, the leaves of Taraxacum Obovatum are edible and can be used in salads or cooked like spinach.
Q: How do I propagate Taraxacum Obovatum?
A: The plant can be propagated by seed or by dividing the root ball in the spring or fall.
Q: Can Taraxacum Obovatum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the root system.
Q: How often should I water Taraxacum Obovatum?
A: The plant prefers moist soil but can also tolerate drought. Water the plant regularly during dry periods.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Taraxacum Obovatum:- Taraxacum officinale (Common dandelion)- Taraxacum erythrospermum (Red-seeded dandelion)- Taraxacum kok-saghyz (Rubber dandelion)
References
– “Taraxacum obovatum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 7 Sep. 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277071&isprofile=0&– “Taraxacum obovatum.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed 7 Sep. 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=TAOB– “Taraxacum obovatum.” Illinois Wildflowers. Accessed 7 Sep. 2021. https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/weeds/plants/obo_dandelion.htm
