Taraxacum pseudoroseum
Origin: Central Asia
Improvement status: Wild
Seeds per packet: ~50
BOTANICAL SAMPLE - NOT GERMINATION TESTED
Life cycle: Perennial
Native to Central Asia, this charming pink dandelion species — with pink outer and yellow inner petals — is far less prolific than its famous yellow cousin (Taraxacum officinale, native to Europe), so you don't need to worry about it taking over your garden. The flower, leaves, and roots of this perennial species are all edible — and said to be less bitter than the yellow kind. The root can also be roasted as a coffee substitute. The plant is a rich source of Vitamin A, C, and K, and a good source of calcium, potassium, iron, and manganese, among other nutrients.
GROWING TIPS: Hardy to USDA Zones 3 and above. Germination may take 1-3 weeks. Direct sow when soil reaches 60-65ºF, or start indoors a few weeks before last frost. Seeds should be surface-sown and pressed into soil as they require light to germinate. Fall sowing outdoors works well. Space plants 6-10 inches apart.
