Taraxacum mattmarkense

Taraxacum mattmarkense, commonly known as the mountain dandelion, is a flowering plant species in the Asteraceae family. Native to the Alps, it thrives at high altitudes, typically above 2,000 meters. The plant features a basal rosette of deeply lobed and toothed leaves. It has a hollow stem that produces a single yellow flower head resembling a dandelion. This flower head is composed of numerous small flowers that are pollinated by insects. Traditionally, the mountain dandelion has been used in herbal medicine for its diuretic properties. It serves as a remedy for various ailments, including liver disorders, digestive issues, and skin conditions. Furthermore, it contains antioxidants such as flavonoids, which have demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties. Adapted to the harsh alpine environment with its short growing seasons, the mountain dandelion quickly produces seeds after flowering. These seeds are capable of germinating rapidly when favorable conditions return in the spring. Overall, Taraxacum mattmarkense is a fascinating alpine species with notable medicinal properties. It plays a crucial role in its ecosystem, providing food for pollinators during the brief growing seasons at high altitudes.

Characteristics

Plant Type

Herb

Life Cycle

Perennial

Genus

Taraxacum

Family

Asteraceae

Hardiness Zone

4-8

Mature Height

5 cm to 15 cm

Mature Spread

10 cm to 20 cm

Leaf Color

Green, Dark Green

Leaf Type

Deciduous

Flower Color

Yellow

Flower Size

3.05 cm to 5.08 cm

Bloom Time

Late spring, Early summer

Planting Time

Spring, Summer, Autumn

Harvest Time

Early summer, Mid summer

Native Area

Switzerland, Bulgaria, Austria, France

Tags (7)

Common Names (3)