Is catsear (false dandelion) edible? Which parts and how? - Ask Extension
We've got a lawn full of catsear (false dandelion) and have been reading some online articles saying that the buds, leaves, and even roots are edible....
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Is catsear (false dandelion) edible? Which parts and how? #349573
Asked August 03, 2016, 11:20 AM EDT
We've got a lawn full of catsear (false dandelion) and have been reading some online articles saying that the buds, leaves, and even roots are edible. Is this true? I know people eat dandelion, but what about catsear? The leaves seem really hairy for eating...
Multnomah County Oregon
Expert Response
Is catsear edible?
Common catsear (Hypochaeris radicata) is a perennial weed closely related to dandelion (Taraxacum officinale). It is in the same plant family (composite or Asteraceae), and shares the same growth habit and reproductive strategy (windblown seeds). Look for very fuzzy leaves and multiple dandelion-like flowers/fuzzballs on common catsear, compared to smooth leaves and single flower heads on each stem for dandelion.
Yes, like the dandelion it is edible. However, as with most plants eaten for their leaves the new, young shoots are the best.
Common catsear (Hypochaeris radicata) is a perennial weed closely related to dandelion (Taraxacum officinale). It is in the same plant family (composite or Asteraceae), and shares the same growth habit and reproductive strategy (windblown seeds). Look for very fuzzy leaves and multiple dandelion-like flowers/fuzzballs on common catsear, compared to smooth leaves and single flower heads on each stem for dandelion.
Yes, like the dandelion it is edible. However, as with most plants eaten for their leaves the new, young shoots are the best.
