Every time I see one of these dandelion fluff-balls, I think of a trick I learned and have played on several unsuspecting victims (mostly kids).  Here is how it goes:

    First, with the potential victim present, tell them that you are going to show them a magic trick using dandelions.  Pick off a section of dandelion leaf, and then carefully, snap off the stem with fluff-ball of the plant holding it so that it looks like a magic wand.  Explain to the victim, that by using the dandelion “magic wand”, that you will be able to find the piece of leaf that is hidden.

    Give the leaf to the victim, and tell them to hide it somewhere on their person, then turn around to face the opposite direction so they can do so.  When the piece has been hidden, turn back around to face the subject, and slowly holding the “wand” so the fluff is toward them, move the wand up and down their body.  Pay special attention to their face circling it several times.

    Then, holding the wand close to their face say, “Its in your mouth!”.

    They will reply, “No, its not”.

    Look unconvinced and say, “Show me, open your mouth”,

    When they open their mouth, thrust the fluff-ball into it, and then run like hell while they are gagging and spitting.

    It’s a rotten trick I know, but its a bit of folk knowledge that should be passed on to the younger generation.