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Description
Agoseris Heterophylla, also known as mountain dandelion, is a flowering perennial plant that can be found in the western part of North America. Its scientific name is derived from the Greek words agos, meaning “a kind of goat,” and seris, meaning “lettuce,” which refers to its goat-like leaves and dandelion-like flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Agoseris |
Appearance
The leaves of Agoseris Heterophylla are basal, meaning they arise from the base of the plant, and are variable in shape and size. They can be oval or lance-shaped, with toothed or smooth edges. The plant produces a single stem that can grow up to 60 cm tall and bears one or more flowers that resemble dandelions. The flowers are yellow, with up to 20 petals, and bloom from June to September.
Care Guide
Agoseris Heterophylla prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It is drought-tolerant and does not require much watering, except during prolonged dry spells. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of compost or organic fertilizer can be beneficial. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Agoseris Heterophylla is generally pest-free and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and leaf spot, especially in humid conditions. To prevent these issues, avoid overcrowding and improve air circulation by removing dead leaves and flowers.
Habitat
Agoseris Heterophylla is native to the western part of North America, from Alaska to California and east to Montana and Colorado. It grows in a variety of habitats, including meadows, rocky slopes, and open woods, at elevations ranging from sea level to over 3,000 meters.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Agoseris Heterophylla edible?
A: Yes, the young leaves and stems of Agoseris Heterophylla can be eaten raw or cooked, and the flowers can be used to make tea.
Q: Can Agoseris Heterophylla be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Agoseris Heterophylla can be grown in containers as long as they are deep enough to accommodate its long taproot.
Q: Where can I buy Agoseris Heterophylla seeds?
A: Agoseris Heterophylla seeds can be purchased from online seed retailers or collected from mature plants in the wild.
Q: Is Agoseris Heterophylla a good plant for pollinators?
A: Yes, Agoseris Heterophylla is a good plant for pollinators, especially bees and butterflies, which are attracted to its yellow flowers.
Related Plants
- Agoseris Glauca
- Agoseris Grandiflora
- Agoseris Retrorsa
- Agoseris Elata
References
- USDA Plants Database: Agoseris Heterophylla
- Wildflowers of the Pacific Northwest: Agoseris Heterophylla
- Native American Ethnobotany Database: Agoseris Heterophylla
- Encyclopedia of Life: Agoseris Heterophylla
