5 Weeds that Look Like Dandelions: How to Identify and Remove Them

Last Updated on May 17, 2022 by Kimberly Crawford

Dandelions are a common weed that can be found in many yards and gardens. While they are not harmful, they can be unsightly. If you have been trying to get rid of dandelions but are not sure how to tell them apart from other weeds, keep reading!

In this blog post, we will discuss the differences between dandelions and other common weeds, as well as how to remove them.

Weeds that Look Like Dandelions

1. Bristly Hawkbit (Leontodon Hispidus).

1 weeds that look like dandelions leontodon hispidus

This weed is also known as Rough Hawkbit and Hard-leaved Hawkbit. It is a member of the sunflower family (Asteraceae), and its small yellow flower heads resemble those of the dandelion.

The main difference between the two plants is that Bristly Hawkbit has much narrower leaves, and its flower heads are borne on hairy stems. This weed is native to Europe and Asia, but it has now naturalized in North America.

Bristly Hawkbit can be a problem in lawns, gardens, and agricultural fields. It is difficult to control because it produces a large number of seeds that are easily dispersed by the wind.

The best way to control this weed is to prevent it from going to seed. This can be done by regularly mowing the plant before it flowers, or by pulling it up by the roots.

If you have this weed in your garden, you can try to control it by hand-pulling, but you will need to be persistent and remove all the plants before they go to seed. You can also try to smother the plants by covering them with a thick layer of mulch.

2. Catsear (Hypochaeris Radicata).

2 weeds that look like dandelions hypochaeris radicata catsear

This weed is often mistaken for a dandelion because of its similar appearance. It has a rosette of leaves at the base with long, slender stems that bear yellow flowers. Catsear is most commonly found in lawns, gardens, and roadside areas.

To remove this weed, you can either dig it up or pull it up by the roots. You can also use a herbicide, but be sure to follow the directions carefully.

If you have catsear in your lawn or garden, you’ll want to get rid of it as soon as possible. This weed is difficult to control and can quickly take over an area if left unchecked. Catsear is also known to be toxic to animals, so it’s important to keep your pets and children away from it.

3. Coast Dandelion (Agoseris Apargioides).

3 weeds that look like dandelions coast dandelion

They are yellow and have a long, slender stem. The leaves are deeply lobed and the flower heads are about an inch in diameter.

Coast Dandelions can be found in coastal areas from California to Alaska. They grow in open areas such as beaches, dunes, and cliffs.

Coast Dandelions are not true dandelions (Taraxacum officinale). They are in the sunflower family (Asteraceae).

Coast Dandelions are annuals. They reproduce by seed. The seeds are dispersed by the wind.

Coast Dandelions are considered weeds. They can be a nuisance in gardens and lawns.

If you have Coast Dandelions in your yard, you can remove them by digging them up. You can also mow them down. If you have a lot of Coast Dandelions, you may want to consider using herbicides.

Herbicides are chemicals that kill plants. They are available in liquid and granular form.

You can find herbicides at your local garden center or home improvement store.

Follow the directions on the label when using herbicides.

Be sure to read and follow all safety precautions.

Do not use herbicides near water or in areas where children and pets play.

4. Meadow Hawkweed (Pilosella Caespitosa).

4 weeds that look like dandelions hawkweed or pilosella caespitosa

This weed may look like a dandelion at first glance, but upon closer inspection, you’ll notice that it’s actually quite different. The leaves of this plant are deeply lobed and have a hairy texture, while the flowers are small and yellow-orange in color.

If you’re trying to get rid of dandelions in your lawn, you’ll want to be sure to remove this weed as well.

To identify meadow hawkweed, look for its deeply lobed leaves and hairy texture. The flowers of this plant are small and yellow-orange in color. If you see this weed in your lawn, be sure to remove it.

There are a few different ways to remove meadow hawkweed. One method is to dig up the plant, making sure to get all of the roots. Another option is to use a weed killer that contains glyphosate.

You can also try covering the plant with a tarp or black plastic so that it will suffocate and die. Whichever method you choose, be sure to monitor the area and remove any new plants that may sprout up.

5. Narrowleaf Hawksbeard (Crepis Tectorum).

5 weeds that look like dandelions crepis tectorum the narrowleaf hawksbeard

While Narrowleaf Hawksbeard may resemble a dandelion at first glance, there are several key differences between the two plants. The most obvious difference is the lack of a yellow flower on Narrowleaf Hawksbeard.

Additionally, Narrowleaf Hawksbeard has narrower leaves than a dandelion, and the plant itself is generally smaller in size. Finally, Narrowleaf Hawksbeard typically grows in clusters, while dandelions typically grow alone or in small groups.

Narrowleaf Hawksbeard can be found in lawns, gardens, and fields across North America. While the plant is not poisonous, it can be a nuisance if left to grow unchecked.

To remove this weed, simply pull it up by the roots or dig it out with a shovel. Be sure to dispose of it in a trash can or compost bin so that it doesn’t regrow.

Related:

FAQs

Are false dandelions poisonous?

The short answer is no, false dandelions are not poisonous. However, some people may experience allergic reactions to the plant. If you’re concerned about possible reactions, it’s best to avoid contact with the plant.

False dandelions are also known as catsear or cuckooflower. They’re a type of Asteraceae, which is a large family of flowering plants that includes daisies, sunflowers, and chrysanthemums. False dandelions are native to Europe and Asia but can now be found all over the world. The plant typically blooms in spring and summer.

False dandelions get their name from their similarity to the common dandelion (Taraxacum officinale). Both plants have yellow flowers and long, slender leaves. However, false dandelions are slightly larger than common dandelions.

They also have hairy stems and leaves, while common dandelions do not. False dandelions are considered weeds in many parts of the world.

The plant can be difficult to control because it produces a large number of seeds that are spread by the wind. False dandelions are often found in lawns, gardens, and other areas where there’s bare soil.

False dandelion vs dandelion

The false dandelion, also known as the cat’s ear dandelion, is a common weed that can be found in gardens and lawns. It is easily identified by its fuzzy, yellow flowers and long, slender leaves. The false dandelion is not actually a true dandelion, but it is in the same family of plants.

The dandelion is a weed that many people try to get rid of in their yards. However, the dandelion is actually a very beneficial plant. It is a great source of food for bees and other insects, and the leaves are edible. The dandelion is also known for its medicinal properties.

Catsear vs dandelion

The catsear, also called the flatweed, is a yellow-flowered plant. The dandelion is a bright yellow flower that blooms in the spring. Both plants are found in North America and Europe.

The catsear has long been used as a medicinal herb. It was once used to treat fevers, digestive problems, and skin conditions. The dandelion has also been used medicinally for centuries. It was once used to treat kidney and liver problems, as well as skin conditions.

Today, both plants are considered to be weed species. They are often found in lawns and gardens, where they can be a nuisance.

What does a false dandelion look like?

The false dandelion (Taraxacum ceratophorum) is a member of the sunflower family that closely resembles the common dandelion (Taraxacum officinale).

Both plants have yellow flowers and deeply lobed leaves, but the false dandelion has narrower leaves and its flower heads are borne on longer, thinner stems.

The false dandelion is also more likely to occur in dry, open habitats such as meadows and roadsides, while the common dandelion is more commonly found in lawns, gardens, and other cultivated areas.

Conclusion

So, there you have it! The next time you see a weed that looks like a dandelion, you’ll know exactly what it is and how to get rid of it. Thanks for reading!