Chicago Botanic Garden

Education — Lenhardt Library

Current Books & Book Reviews

PHOTO: bookcover

Anita Sanchez.
The Story of the Beloved and Despised Dandelion.
Blacksburg, Va.: McDonald & Woodward, 2006.
Paper, 136 pp., ISBN 0–939–92322–x, $14.95.

The ubiquitous dandelion, both loved and hated by humans, is the subject of a series of essays describing its close association with mankind. Used as a food and for its medicinal qualities, the species hitched a ride to the New World where it quickly spread across the continent. Its adaptability to challenging environments gave it an edge over other forbs and grasses. Environmental educator Anita Sanchez tells of the natural history of the plant in an engaging, personal style. Readers will gain appreciation for this humble species, despite the ongoing battle to banish it from all lawns.

— Marilyn K. Alaimo, garden writer and volunteer, Chicago Botanic Garden.