Catsear

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.

Catsear and dandelion are perennial herbs which often becomes a nuisance in the home lawn. It has a deep tap root able to withstand dry conditions that usually degrade a lawn, however, these weeds survive. On maturing, the yellow flowers become the fluffy white balls we all remember as kids. While picking the stems and blowing away the hundreds of little parachutes, little did we realise we were just spreading weeds, albeit while enjoying the innocent childhood experience.

The plant is also known as false dandelion, as it is commonly mistaken for true dandelions. Both plants carry similar flowers which form 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.

Atsear and flatweed are one in the same, but with different names. Dandelion is a different species, but the two plants look similar, have similar characteristics, and are treated the same. For these reasons, we've included the two weeds in the same article. While these two plants are often mistaken for one another, a simple and quick investigation can.