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*Taraxacum* is a large genus of flowering plants in the family *Asteraceae*, native to Eurasia and North and South America. Two species, *T. officinale* and *T. erythrospermum*, are found worldwide as common weeds. The genus is commonly known as dandelion, derived from the French *dent-de-lion* (meaning "lion's tooth"). Like other members of the Asteraceae family, dandelions have composite flower heads composed of numerous tiny flowers, each referred to as a floret. Many Taraxacum species reproduce asexually through apomixis, producing seeds without pollination, resulting in genetically identical offspring. The genus name *Taraxacum* originates from the term "taraxis," meaning "eye inflammation," reflecting its historical use in treating eye ailments. The seeds are an important food source for many bird species, and the nectar supports various insects. Dandelion flowers close during inclement weather and are also known for their diuretic properties. ## Keywords plantae angiosperms eudicots asterids asterales cichorieae
