Envoy at 04:37, 2 July 2007

2007-07-02T04:37:22Z

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{{Taxobox
| color = lightgreen
| name = Catsear
| image = Catsear.jpg
| image_width = 200px
| image_caption = Catsear sketch
| regnum = [[Plant]]ae
| divisio = [[Flowering plant|Magnoliophyta]]
| classis = [[Dicotyledon|Magnoliopsida]]
| ordo = [[Asterales]]
| familia = [[Asteraceae]]
| genus = ''[[Hypochaeris]]''
| species = '''''H. radicata'''''
| binomial = ''Hypochaeris radicata''
| binomial_authority = [[Carolus Linnaeus|L.]]
}}

'''Catsear''' (''Hypochaeris radicata''), also known as '''cat's ear''' or '''false dandelion''', is a [[Perennial plant|perennial]], low-lying edible [[herb]] often found in [[lawn]]s. The plant is native to [[Europe]], but has also been introduced to [[the Americas]], [[Japan]], [[Australia]] and [[New Zealand]].

== Botany ==

The [[leaf|leaves]], which may grow up to eight inches, are lobed and covered in fine hairs, forming a low-lying rosette around a central [[taproot]]. Multiple forked stems carry bright yellow flower heads, and when mature these form seeds attached to windborne "parachutes". All parts of the plant exude a milky [[sap]] when cut.

''Hypochaeris'' species are used as food plants by the [[larva]]e of some [[Lepidoptera]] species including [[Shark (moth)|The Shark]].

== Etymology and differences to dandelions ==

Catsear is derived from the words ''cat's ear'', and refers to the shape and fine-hair on the leaves resembling that of the [[ear]] of a [[cat]].

The plant is also known as ''false dandelion'', as it is commonly mistaken for true [[dandelion]]s. Both plants carry similar flowers which form into windborne seeds. However, catsear flowering stems are forked and solid, whereas dandelions possess unforked stems that are hollow. Both plants have a rosette of leaves and a central taproot. The leaves of dandelions are jagged in appearance, whereas those of catsear are more lobe-shaped and hairy. Both plants have similar uses.

== Culinary uses ==

All parts of the catsear plant are edible; however, the leaves and roots are those most often harvested. The leaves are bland in taste but can be eaten raw in salads, steamed, or in stir-fries. Older leaves can become tough and fibrous, but younger leaves make for good eating. Some bitterness in the leaves may be apparent but is rare.

The root can be roasted and ground to form a [[coffee]] substitute.

== References ==

* [http://www.nwcb.wa.gov/weed_info/Written_findings/Hypochaeris_radicata.html The Washington State Noxious Weed Control Board - Catsear]
* [http://plants.usda.gov/java/profile?symbol=HYRA3 USDA Plants Database]
* Low, Tim. Wild Herbs of Australia and New Zealand. Rev. ed. Angus and Robertson, 1991. ISBN 0-207-17001-0.

[[Category:Asteraceae]]
[[Category:Herbs]]
[[Category:Leaf vegetables]]

Catsear - Revision history

Envoy at 04:37, 2 July 2007