It's not worth a Pappenstiel

The word Pappenstiel in the German saying "It's not worth a Pappenstiel" means a small thing or something worthless. Pappenstiel has nothing to do with "Pappe" (cardboard), but is in fact a contraction of the word Pappenblumenstiel.

And we all know the "Pappenblume" much better under the name dandelion.

The dandelion was once considered of little value because its seed crown can easily be blown away in the wind and the stalk by itself (the "pappenstiel") is worthless. The plant can be found on practically every corner in our latitudes. And it does not even need special care, but spreads (in the eyes of some gardeners) "like a weed". However, the dandelion is becoming more valuable again these days because it is insect-friendly.