Reflexed-lobed dandelion (Taraxacum retroflexum, Meddeland. Soc. Fauna Fl. Fenn. 35: 18 (1909))

Family: Asteraceae

Author: H.Lindb.

Bibliography: Meddeland. Soc. Fauna Fl. Fenn. 35: 18 (1909)

Year: 1909

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Taraxacum

Vegetable: False

Observations: Europe

Description

The Reflexed-lobed dandelion, scientifically named Taraxacum retroflexum, is a remarkable species within the diverse and widespread Asteraceae family. Officially described in 1909 by H. Lindb., this plant features prominently in the botanical annals as cited in Meddeland. Soc. Fauna Fl. Fenn. 35: 18.

Taraxacum retroflexum, commonly encountered throughout Europe, showcases unique botanical characteristics that distinguish it from its dandelion relatives. The plant’s most identifiable feature is its reflexed or backward-bending lobes on the leaves, a trait that not only gives it its common name but also aids in its identification among botanists and plant enthusiasts.

As a member of the Asteraceae family, the Reflexed-lobed dandelion shares several key traits typical of the family, such as the composite inflorescences often mistaken for single flowers. These inflorescences comprise numerous small florets that work together to form what appears to be a single bloom, a hallmark of many dandelion species.

The Reflexed-lobed dandelion occupies various habitats across Europe, thriving in both natural and disturbed environments. Its resilient nature allows it to adapt and flourish in diverse conditions, making it a familiar sight from meadows and grasslands to roadside verges and urban parks.

Botanical studies focusing on Taraxacum retroflexum often highlight its ecological significance and its role within local ecosystems. As with other dandelions, it provides nectar for pollinators, playing a crucial role in maintaining the health of these essential insect populations.

In conclusion, Taraxacum retroflexum, or the Reflexed-lobed dandelion, stands out not just for its distinct morphological traits but also for its contribution to ecological systems across Europe. First described in scientific literature over a century ago, it remains a subject of interest and importance within the botanical community.

Common Names

Dan: lyssvøb-vejmælkebøtte
Deu: zurückgebogener löwenzahn
Eng: reflexed-lobed dandelion
Swe: vallmaskros
En: Reflexed-lobed Dandelion
Da: Lyssvøb-vejmælkebøtte
De: Zurückgebogener Löwenzahn
Sv: Vallmaskros

Synonyms

Distribution

• Baltic States (native)
• Belgium (native)
• Denmark (native)
• Finland (native)
• Germany (native)
• Great Britain (native)
• Netherlands (native)
• North European Russi (native)
• Northwest European R (native)
• Norway (native)
• Poland (native)
• Sweden (native)
• Switzerland (native)
• British Columbia (introduced)

Additional Images

Leaf

Taken Dec 23, 2020 by Busch Ana (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• WFO (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5394320)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:254577-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Taraxacum retroflexum H.Lindb.)

Specifications

Growth

Ph maximum: 7.5

Ph minimum: 7.0

Light: 7

Atmospheric humidity: 5

Soil nutriments: 7