Taraxacum japonicum
Taraxacum japonicumfam. Asteraceae
Educational content — not medical, botanical, or professional advice. Always consult a qualified clinician before using any herbal preparation — especially during pregnancy, breastfeeding, while on medication, or for children. How we source & review →
Pl. 980C — Taraxacum japonicum
Taraxacum japonicumTaraxacum japonicumTaraxacum japonicumTaraxacum japonicumTaraxacum japonicumTaraxacum japonicumTaraxacum japonicumTaraxacum japonicumTaraxacum japonicumTaraxacum japonicumTaraxacum japonicumTaraxacum japonicumTaraxacum japonicumTaraxacum japonicum
IOverview
Overview
Taraxacum japonicum, a perennial member of the Asteraceae family and native to Japan, thrives in moist environments with light soil conditions that range from sandy to heavy clay. This plant is known for its edible parts, including flowers, leaves, and roots, which can be harvested throughout the growing season. It prefers full or partial sun exposure and grows to a height of about 0.2 meters. The plant's adaptability to various soil types and its dual use as both an edible and medicinal herb make it a valuable addition to gardens and landscapes in suitable climates. One distinctive feature is its ability to grow well in shaded areas, making it a versatile choice for gardeners with partial sunlight conditions.
Quick answers
What is Taraxacum japonicum?
Taraxacum japonicum, a perennial member of the Asteraceae family and native to Japan, thrives in moist environments with light soil conditions that range from sandy to heavy clay. This plant is known for its edible parts, including flowers, leaves, and roots, which can be harvested throughout the growing season.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Taraxacum japonicum thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). This perennial grows up to 0.2 meters tall and is hardy in temperate regions. For propagation, use root division or seed sowing. The edible parts include flowers, leaves, and roots, making it a versatile addition to the garden for both ornamental and culinary purposes.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
0.2 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Taraxacum japonicum for the first time
8steps
Start with Skip by planting it in a sunny spot and providing basic care.
- 1
What you'll need
Skip seeds or young plants, a small trowel, and a watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Skip in early spring or late summer for best results.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5, and prepare containers at least 30 cm deep.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 1-2 cm deep in rows spaced 30 cm apart, or transplant young plants into the garden.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Mulch around the base for moisture retention.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun to partial shade and regular watering, especially during dry spells. Fertilize once a month with compost.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead leaves and flowers regularly to encourage new growth and maintain the plant's health.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, neglecting regular pruning, not providing enough sunlight, and using chemical fertilizers.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FlowersLeavesRoot
Edible uses: Coffee, Tea
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
1 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
1 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 1 native
Asia1 region
native (1)Japan
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Asteraceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Asteraceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
XII
About this entry
- Last updated
- Citation
- How to cite this entry · Submit a correction
Back to the cataloguePlant id · 980c9b23-5e66-4c2a-9182-8541e2ab5434
Decision aid
Choosing between Taraxacum japonicum and something else?
Continue reading
❦❦❦❦
Endpaper · archive updates
Get archive updates
Occasional email when substantial new content lands — plant profiles, seasonal growing notes, folk-remedy additions. Free, no tracking, unsubscribe anytime.