An Ode to Dandelion

Her blooms a vibrant gold

Essence of the sun

Bring life to a stale, green lawn

Summoning all pollinators to bask in her sweet pollen

And in just a days time

Her blooms turn to seed

White clouds of fairy dust

Carried on the breeze

Her whole being a tonic

Wild medicine in many forms

Too often overlooked in the garden

Harvest her greens for your belly

That bitter taste aids digestion

Pick them young and tender

Add nourishment to your salads and stews

Her roots, an autumn support to the liver

Dig them, clean them, infuse them in alcohol

Chop them, dry them, roast them, boil them into tea

A rich earthly flavor for the soul

And those blossoms,

Those sweet blooms of golden joy

Pick them, dress your salad with them

Top your cakes with the sun

So the next time you curse

Those dandelions in your yard

Remember her gifts

And maybe, you'll see that

Weeds are flowers too Once you get to know them