perennial

Mattmark Dandelion

The Story

Plant Bio

Taraxacum mattmarkense is a low-growing, herbaceous perennial native to the alpine regions of southwestern Europe. It forms a dense basal rosette of deeply lobed, bright green leaves supported by a thick, fleshy taproot.

This alpine micro-species is distinguished by its compact growth habit, reaching a maximum height of only ten inches. The bright yellow, solitary composite flower heads rise on hollow, leafless scapes and mature into spherical, wind-dispersed seed heads.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides bright yellow blooms and classic spherical seed heads in alpine or rock garden settings.

Extremely cold-hardy and drought-tolerant once established due to its deep taproot.

Provides pollen and nectar for generalist insect pollinators and native bees.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

10"

Width

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Southwestern Europe (Alps)

Toxicity

Skin irritant (milky latex)

Bloom period

Spring – Summer

In flower about 6 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a planting site in full sun to partial shade with well-drained soil.
Dig a hole deep enough to accommodate the long taproot without bending it.
Settle the plant into the soil so the crown sits level with the surrounding ground.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around the root system.

Pro Tip

Never pull or shear the root crown expecting eradication; any root fragment left in the soil will regenerate a new plant.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Deadhead spent flowers immediately to prevent unwanted self-seeding.
Grow in well-drained, gritty soil to mimic its native alpine habitat.

Don't

Do not overwater, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot.
Do not leave root fragments in the soil when attempting to remove the plant.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Pest Check
Propagate
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Rock gardensAlpine troughsCrevice gardens

Companion Plants

Gentiana acaulis Saxifraga paniculata Sempervivum tectorum

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Mattmark Dandelion questions

What zones can Mattmark Dandelion grow in?

Mattmark Dandelion is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Mattmark Dandelion deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Mattmark Dandelion, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Mattmark Dandelion bloom?

Mattmark Dandelion typically blooms in spring through summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Mattmark Dandelion need full sun?

Mattmark Dandelion does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Mattmark Dandelion drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Mattmark Dandelion handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.