This may be because of the roughly toothed appearance of the leaves. For an interesting discussion on common names and other information on this weed try this site Dandelion . It can grow in almost any soil type and is most commonly found in sunny areas. Stemless leaves form a basal rosette with flowers arising from the rosette. When cut or broken the stem exudes a white latex sap.
Reproduction is by seed, new plants can develop from pieces of broken taproots.
The single seed looks like it is suspended from a parachute of hairs. Dandelions are raised for the flowers to make wine and the young leaves used as salad greens. The older leaves become bitter. Another use has been as an herbal diuretic medicine. Use of herbal medicines should only be undertaken with full knowledge of the herb and possible interactions or complications.