A sure sign of spring is dandelions in bloom. Botanically known as Taraxacum officinale, Dandelions are a common plant of grassland and cultivated ground. It is native to Eurasia but has naturalized across the Northern Hemisphere. 

Dandelion is a short-lived perennial that will grow just about anywhere, regardless of soil conditions, but rich soil will improve its growth. They withstand frost and freezes and tolerate crowding. Heat and insufficient moisture will cause the leaves to get bitter.

Dandelions can also reproduce vegetatively from pieces of the tap root, with the upper sections of the root having greater viability.