Asiatic Hawksbeard

Youngia japonica

YOUNG-ee-ah jaw-PON-ah-cah

Asteraceae

Native to: Asia, naturalized worldwide in warm climates, including the S.E. U.S.

Florida abundance and distribution: Throughout the state

Recognition: Rosette-forming and taprooted. Leaves Pinnately sharply lobed with a large terminal lobe, the lateral lobes becoming smaller toward the base.  Flowering stalks rising above the leaves having up to 30 flower heads, these yellow and resembling dandelion flowers.

Potentially confused species: Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale), which differs by having single flower head.

Means of dispersal: Fruits acting like parachutes.

Contributed by: Janel Schaffer.