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Kansai DandelionπΌ
Taraxacum japonicum
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A native Japanese dandelion distributed from Kansai to Chugoku, Shikoku, and Kyushu. Like the Kanto dandelion, its involucral bracts do not reflex, and it is a sexual diploid that flowers only in spring. Slightly smaller flower heads and narrower involucres than the Kanto species.
Identification Points
- βOuter involucral bracts stand upright (not reflexed)
- βFlower heads slightly smaller than the Kanto dandelion
- βYellow ligulate florets
- βFlowers only in spring
Habitat
Grasslands and paddy edges in western Honshu, Shikoku, Kyushu
Season
March to May (flowers)
Morphological TraitsAI-estimated, needs verification
Petal count
3 petals
Ovary position
Inferior
Stamen count
1-2
Phylogenetic Positionγγ―η§ β
Phylogenetic Position
Angiosperms > Eudicots > Core eudicots > Asterales > Asteraceae
Divergence Era
Late Cretaceous to Paleogene (approx. 80β70 million years ago)
Evolution Notes
Like the Kanto dandelion, a diploid sexual species. Japan's native dandelions diversified into regional forms, and this is the dominant native in western Japan. Competition and hybridization with the Western dandelion is ongoing in urban Kansai as well.
View on evolution timeline βSources & References
AI-generated, needs verification