The somewhat acid leaves are eaten as potherbs in parts of Asia and Africa. Sometimes the leaves are dried for later use. By carefully picking lower leaves it is possible to get a good crop of leaves and of seedpods from the same plants. The young leaves and shoots of this west African climbing perennial plant are eaten as potherbs. It is one of very few shade tolerant plants to produce good edible greens, and as such may have potential for expanded use.
Dandelion is a perennial and persistent lawn weed in much of the northern hemisphere.
Traditionally it has been harvested before flowering and eaten as an early spring green. Commercial varieties have been bred that are far leafier and far less bitter. Dandelion greens are very rich in beta-carotene and vitamin C and are sold in some European and American specialty markets. It is a woody shrub that can be grown as a hedge. It should not be eaten in very large quantities as some questions remain concerning possible toxins.