NATIONAL DANDELION DAY; APRIL 5

We are celebrating National Dandelion Day on April 5. Dandelions belong to a large genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae. It is also an edible flower and was once native to Eurasia. Now dandelions are found all over the world. Travelers from Europe introduced the plants to North America. Dandelion is a perennial plant that is known to endure harsh conditions. The sight of dandelion seeds gliding with the wind to reach new lands to grow is inspiring and scenic. We are spending this day celebrating the unique qualities of the flower and the versatile traits that helped it thrive all over the world. The impact that often the Dandelion is often the only flower in random yards for pollinators makes this little plant very important. But as a person I love Dandelion tea for its health benefits.

HISTORY OF NATIONAL DANDELION DAY

Dandelion is a tap-rooted, perennial, herbaceous plant, native to the temperate areas of the Northern Hemisphere. Once dandelion flowers dry off, dropping petals and stamens, it opens into a spherical shape. Once the seeds are mature, they fly off with the help of fluffy parachute-like structures attached to their tips. The wind disperses the seeds — they are capable of traveling very large distances.

We believe the dandelion evolved around 30 million years ago in the Eurasian region. Our prehistoric ancestors were well aware that the plant was edible and brimmed with medicinal properties. The properties of the plant were known to Egyptians, Greeks, Chinese, and Romans. It was popular in America for its edible uses and in China for its medicinal benefits.

Raw dandelion greens are rich in calcium, potassium, iron, manganese, and various vitamins. The flower can also be used to produce a yellow dye. The plant is considered an invasive species in various parts of the world. It can affect the growth of other crops, spread far, and grow fast. But it can also help plants when planted properly. Its roots can dig deep and bring forth the nutrients for shallow-rooted plants. It can also attract pollinating insects.

NATIONAL DANDELION DAY TIMELINE

30 Million Years Ago The Evolution of Dandelions

The evolution of dandelions starts in the Eurasian region.

900 Persians Use Dandelions

Persians start calling dandelions ‘tarashquq’ and later rename it ‘taraxacum.’

1000 Ibn Sina on Dandelions

The Persian scientist and philosopher Ibn Sīnā writes a book chapter on them.

16th Century A.D.Dandelions for Medicine

John Gerard and John Parkinson start to use dandelions as medicine.