Why Dandelions Matter
Dandelions are common plants found in many places throughout Ireland, and one you’re no doubt familiar with. They are easily recognizable by their bright yellow flowers which are made up of many tiny florets. These flowers eventually transform into fluffy white seed heads, each seed attached to a parachute-like structure that helps it disperse in the wind. Their leaves are jagged and toothed, forming a rosette at the base of the plant. They have a thick, deep taproot that gardeners will know can be difficult to remove. These plants are important for biodiversity.
Dandelions growing on Cloudforest Four. Photo by Kim Lake
Dandelions provide food for many insects. Bees, butterflies, and other pollinators visit dandelions for nectar and pollen. These insects need food to survive and reproduce. Without dandelions, some insect populations might decrease. In Ireland, dandelions are particularly valuable to native Irish bees, including solitary bees as well as bumblebees , hoverflies, and butterflies like the Small Tortoiseshell and Peacock.
The remains of a dandelion clock after wind has blown most of the seeds away
Photo by Kim Lake
Dandelions grow in many different environments. They can grow in lawns, fields, and along roadsides. This wide distribution makes them a reliable food source for wildlife across different areas.
Dandelions often bloom early in spring. This is when other flowers are not yet available. Early emerging insects rely on dandelions as a first food source. This helps them survive after winter. In Ireland, this is especially important for queen bumblebees emerging from hibernation, who need energy to start new colonies.
Dandelions also support other species indirectly. By providing food for over 100 difference insect species, they also support animals that eat insects. Birds, for example, eat insects that feed on dandelions. This makes dandelions part of a larger food web.
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