One plant that I never heard of before gardening in Southern California is Sow Thistle. I first tasted some today and to my surprise found it quite delicious.
I will talk about this plant later and provide some photos, but in the meantime, a big thanks to some other writers who have described this dandelion look-alike:
A Squidoo Article about Sows Thistle
In the above article the writer states that although Sows Thistle is now considered an invasive weed, it was actually brought to the United States by Europeans who grew it as a vegetable.
In the above article there is a paragraph long list of names of dandelion look alikes.
Merriweather's Guide to Edible Wild Plants
The author of the above blog explains how the roots of the Sows Thistle can be used to make a caffeine-free coffee substitute.
Armeniapedia says that Sows Thistle serves as a host plant for aphids. I'll have to think about that one.
Absolute Astronomy says that the alternate name for this plant, Hare Thistle, comes from the fact that it was used as fodder for rabbits. The fact is, tonight I did see a rabbit munching on some Sows Thistle in my neighbor's yard. Unfortunately, it was too dark out to take a picture.
UPDATE ON THE RABBIT: Wabbits and Easter