Read by Matilda Longbottom

Long, long ago—thousands, perhaps even hundreds of thousands of years ago—dandelions were known to be sacred and magical. The first humans on Mother Earth called them the “universe flower” because of their remarkable resemblance to celestial wonders. In bloom, they shone as bright as the sun. Once they turned to seed, they mirrored the glowing full moon. And when their delicate seeds floated away on the breeze, carried by hopeful breath, they became tiny stars dancing in the night sky.

The tradition of making a wish as you blow on a dandelion’s fluffy white head is one of the oldest customs in the world. Though much of their ancient magic has faded into the shifting sands of time, this simple ritual endures, passed down through generations.

Dandelions are far more than mere weeds. They are among nature’s most resilient and determined plants, flourishing in sand, mud, and even cracks in the pavement. Like all of nature’s creatures—be they plant, animal, or mineral—dandelions possess a quiet magic, but theirs is especially profound.

And they are not just beautiful; they are useful, too! Their golden blooms, tender leaves, and sturdy roots have been valued for centuries in teas, salads, and even as crispy, fried treats. A battered and fried dandelion head, golden and crunchy, is a Springtime delight. Their leaves add a peppery crunch to fresh salads, and dandelion tea is both soothing and healthful.

Despite their many virtues, dandelions are often unwelcome guests in manicured lawns and gardens. People mow them down, poison them, and pull them up by their roots, believing them to be nothing more than pesky weeds. But a yard without dandelions is a lonely place—devoid of the bees that sip their nectar, the butterflies that flutter among their blooms, and the birds that find joy in their seeds.

Children, however, know the truth. They see dandelions for what they truly are—treasures of nature. A bouquet of dandelions, clutched in a child’s tiny hand and proudly offered to a mother, is worth more than the grandest arrangement of roses. The soft white seed heads, so delicate yet full of promise, are nature’s invitation to dream. Blow and your wishes will travel to the heavens, carried on the wind like fairy wings.

Roses may speak of love, daisies may predict devotion, and lavender may soothe the soul—but only dandelions hold the power to grant wishes. A single breath upon a dandelion’s downy crown can send hopes and dreams soaring into the universe.

So, this Spring, consider leaving the dandelions be. Let them bloom, let them glow like tiny suns in the grass, let them transform into moons and stars. Let the bees find their nectar, let the children gather their golden bouquets, and let the wind carry our whispered dreams.

For dandelions are not weeds. They are magic. ❖

About the Author: Ginger Strivelli is an artist and writer from North Carolina, with a passion for storytelling that blends enchantment with everyday life. Her work has appeared in Marion Zimmer Bradley’s Fantasy Magazine, Circle Magazine, Third Flatiron, Autism Parenting Magazine, Silver Blade, Solarpunk Magazine, and numerous anthologies. She travels the world seeking inspiration, weaving magic into her words, and creating art that reflects the beauty of nature.