Are Dandelions and Cat's Ear Safe to Forage?

Distinguishing Features

Dandelions (Taraxacum officinale) and Cat’s Ear (Herniaria hirsuta) can be identified by their distinctive features. Dandelions have jagged, toothed leaves that grow in a rosette pattern, while Cat’s Ear has small, hairless or almost hairless leaves that are typically oval in shape. When in doubt, inspect the plant’s flowers: dandelions have bright yellow, rayed flowers, whereas Cat’s Ear produces small, white or pinkish, nodding flowers.

Edible Parts and Preparation

The edible parts of dandelions include the leaves, flowers, and roots, which can be consumed raw or cooked. To prepare dandelion greens, remove the bitter taproot and blanch the leaves in boiling water for 30 seconds to 1 minute. The flowers can be used as a food ingredient in salads or as a garnish, while the roots can be roasted as a coffee substitute. Cat’s Ear, however, is primarily used as a herbal remedy, and its leaves and stems can be made into a tea by infusing 1-2 teaspoons in a cup of boiling water for 5-10 minutes.