 HORTICULTURE TOPIC: Save the Dandelions Horticulture Chair Nancy Percivall did a presentation on dandelions. Dandelion is a hardy perennial that can grow nearly 12 inches in height. The name dandelion comes from "dent-de-lion", French for "lion's tooth" – because of its deeply-notched, jagged, spatula-like leaves. All parts of the plant are edible from their flowers, stems, leaves, and roots. For thousands of years, various cultures have consumed dandelion for their medicinal benefits. Although the leaves are bitter in taste, they contain high levels of vitamins A, C, and K. For gardeners, dandelion are a beneficial companion plant and an important food source for wildlife like birds and bees. There are also some disadvantages to dandelion – their pollen is a common allergy and large patches can reduce crop yields in commercial farming. The plant reproduces by wind-blown seed; up to 15,000 seeds per plant. There are usually 150 to 200 seeds per flower and up to 10 flowers per plant. While some view the dandelion as a pesky weed on their lawn, others see an opportunity to make a wish!  Nancy made dandelion cookies and gave members a dandelion tea bag to take home to try. Dandelion tea boosts the immune system, encourages healthy cell growth, and helps bone health.
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