Dreamy Dent-de-lion

I'm sure most people have taken at least one photo of a Dandelion seedhead, lol. This one was taken down near Forgetmenot Pond on July 1st.

"Dandelions get provincial reprieve.
CBC News Posted: May 24, 2011 12:33 PM MT Last Updated: May 24, 2011 5:07 PM MT.

Calgarians who strive for a perfectly green lawn are losing a weapon in their never-ending battle against dandelions. A recently passed overhaul of the province's Weed Control Act saw the much detested yellow flowering plant removed from the list of noxious weeds. That means municipal bylaw officers will no longer be able to fine homeowners who let dandelions overtake their yards.

Officials in Calgary have more serious weed problems to tackle than dandelions anyway, according to Simon Wilkins, the city's pest management co-ordinator. "Not to discount people's interest in regular garden weeds but it's important to have a broader view and put everything in its context," said Wilkins. Wilkins said most of his department's resources are spent battling highly noxious invasive weeds.

.... Chris Neeser a weed specialist for Alberta Agriculture acknowledged that the dandelion is still a nuisance for grain farmers. But he said the ubiquitous weed is simply part of the Alberta landscape."

"While the dandelion is considered a weed by many gardeners, the plant does have several culinary and medicinal uses. The plant can be eaten cooked or raw and is used in soups or salads. Usually the young leaves and unopened buds are eaten raw in salads, while older leaves are cooked. Raw leaves have a slightly bitter taste. Dandelion flowers can be used to make dandelion wine. The leaves are high in vitamin A, vitamin C and iron, containing more iron than spinach. Ground roasted dandelion root can be used as a coffee substitute. It is believed to stimulate digestive functions. Sold in most health food stores for a variety of health benefits." From usagardener.com/disease_pests_and_weeds/weeds_and_weeding....

You either love 'em or hate 'em - I love 'em, so bright and cheery!