Taraxacum is a large genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae and includes the species commonly known as dandelions.

The entire plant – leaves, stems, flowers, and roots – is edible and rich in nutrients such as calcium, iron, and vitamins A and K.

Dandelions have a wide range of uses and is often cultivated in small gardens and on farms as it brings up nutrients for shallow-rooting plants. It is also known to attract pollinating insects and release ethylene gas, which helps fruit to ripen.

However, it is also considered an invasive species which can damage crops and cause major economic damage.