Dandelion Sunbeam

The afternoon sunlight was lovely today and I decided it was time to give the humble dandelion it's time in the sun.
We seem to have an abundance of them this year and I've always seen them as weeds in the past, which is a poor case of plant based prejudice on my part.
Dandelions are truly fascinating plants, so prepare yourselves for some dandelion facts:
They spread seeds quickly because their seeds can travel up to five miles - that equates to 88 football pitches.
Their wide spreading roots loosen hard-packed soil, aerate the earth and help reduce soil erosion.
They're also called pioneer plants or ruderals because they are the first plants to grow on land that has been disturbed - an example being like land after a wild fire.
They contain beta-carotene, which is an antioxidant that helps prevent cells from damage.
They can supply food to a number of different pollinators including bumblebees, butterflies, hover flies, day flying moths and solitary bees.
They symbolise the return of life, the rebirth of growth and green after a harsh winter and a display of abundant strength and power.
They even have a wonderful list of nicknames including Lion's-tooth, cankerworm, Monk's-head, Priest's-crown, puffball, blowball and yellow-gowan.
If that's not enough to convince you I don't know what is - it worked for me! :-)