Dandelion
Perennial & invasive weed
Dandelion is a familiar, tough perennial of lawns, borders, paving cracks and allotments. Its bright flowers and airy seed clocks make it easy to recognise, but a single plant can rapidly become several. It survives close mowing and poor soil, and its deep root makes casual pulling frustratingly ineffective.
How to identify it
Look for a low rosette of sharply toothed, hairless green leaves, usually 10-30 cm long, with the teeth pointing back towards the leaf base. Hollow, leafless stems carry single yellow flower heads, followed by round white clock seed heads. Plants commonly reach 15-40 cm in flower. Beneath the rosette is a deep, brittle taproot; even small pieces left behind can regrow. Seeds travel readily on the wind.
Where it grows
It appears throughout the UK, especially in sunny lawns, vegetable plots, paths, patio joints and disturbed borders. Growth begins early in spring and may continue into autumn, with flowering often repeated through the season. It favours open ground but tolerates compacted soil, close mowing and occasional drought remarkably well.
Why it is a problem
Dandelions compete with crops and ornamentals for moisture, light and nutrients, while their spreading leaves spoil a neat lawn or path edge. Clock seeds can colonise newly cleared ground quickly. Mowing removes flowers temporarily but rarely harms the root, so established plants often return and steadily enlarge.
How to control it
Lift young plants after rain, using a narrow weeding tool or fork to follow the taproot as deeply as possible. Aim to remove the whole root rather than snapping it near the surface. In beds, hoe seedlings on a dry day before they flower and mulch bare soil to reduce new germination. For lawns, lever out individual rosettes and refill holes with soil and grass seed. Repeat checks through the growing season.
Commonly confused with
The jagged leaves can resemble sow-thistles, but dandelion has one flower per unbranched hollow stem and no leafy stem. Cat's-ear has similar yellow flowers, though its stems are usually branched and its leaves are noticeably hairy.
Dandelion: frequently asked questions
How do I identify dandelion?
Look for a low rosette of sharply toothed, hairless green leaves, usually 10-30 cm long, with the teeth pointing back towards the leaf base.
How do I get rid of dandelion?
Lift young plants after rain, using a narrow weeding tool or fork to follow the taproot as deeply as possible.
Where does dandelion grow?
It appears throughout the UK, especially in sunny lawns, vegetable plots, paths, patio joints and disturbed borders.
General guidance for UK gardens and allotments, focused on prevention and non-chemical control. For a confirmed identification, the RHS or a local garden centre can help. Page updated 18 Sep 2026.