Common Cat's-Ear

Naming

"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.

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.

Defense

This species is suspected of causing stringhalt in horses if consumed in excess.

Uses

All parts of the catsear plant are edible; however, the leaves and roots are those most often harvested. The leaves are bland in taste but can be eaten raw in salads, steamed, or used in stir-fries. Older leaves can become tough and fibrous, but younger leaves make for good eating. In contrast to the edible leaves of dandelion, catsear leaves only rarely have some bitterness. In Crete, Greece, the leaves of a variety called pachies or agrioradika are eaten boiled or cooked in steam by the locals.

The root can be roasted and ground to form a coffee substitute.