T. officinale is the common and sometimes pesky, perennial weed in northern yards known as the Dandelion. The Dandelion (Also known as Swine's Snout, Priest's Crown and Telltime.) develops a deep, thick taproot from which a rosette of long, narrow, serrated, shiny dark green or brownish leaves arise. The hollow flower stalks grow directly from the root and each leafless stalk produces a single, golden yellow blossom, which produces an abundance of pollen and nectar. When the flower has reached its prime, it closes up and the dead petals fall off. Eventually the seeds mature and form snowy white puff balls, which will be blown off to be dispersed by the wind.

The young Dandelion leaves, especially if blanched, can be used to make salads either alone or along with other salad greens; older leaves will be too bitter. The young leaves can also be boiled as a vegetable.

Diente de Lion - Dandelion Link

Properties of Dandelion Favored by the Aztec's

Augments the quantity of red blood cells in the liver and spleen, recommended for convalescing patients of infectious diseases, pre tuberculosis and anemics. It also possesses diuretic and sudorific properties.