Smooth Cat's-ear
hypochaeris glabra
Also known as: ["Flat-stem Cat's-ear","Smooth Hypochaeris"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with basal leaves and yellow dandelion-like flowers on leafless stems.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Hypochaeris |
| Botanical Name: | Hypochaeris glabra |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a sunny spot with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Loamy, well-draining soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed; after flowering or when growth becomes unruly.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless rejuvenating the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in arid regions; ensure adequate airflow if grown indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; use raised beds if drainage is poor; amend with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F/15–24°C); adaptable to seasonal fluctuations.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize sparingly to prevent overgrowth; apply after watering to avoid root burn; stop fertilizing in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Seed or division; stem cuttings can be used but are less common.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Prepare medium.
- Sow seeds or take cuttings.
- Maintain moisture.
- Transplant once established.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F/18–24°C), humid, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or sandy loam.
Hormone
Not necessary for seeds; rooting hormone can aid stem cuttings.
Timeline
Seeds germinate in 2–4 weeks; cuttings root in 3–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, pruners, rooting hormone (optional), misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Keep soil consistently moist; provide gentle warmth; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead flowers; trim back stems to just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, clean cutting tool.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; remove dead/damaged growth; shape as needed; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; replant in fresh soil with good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots if crowded; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may become dormant in freezing temperatures; roots can rot in waterlogged soil.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; ensure well-draining soil; reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch or wilt; growth may slow; flowering can be reduced.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicHypochaeris glabra is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not pose a significant risk to felines when ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicHypochaeris glabra is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant is not known to cause significant adverse effects when ingested by canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicHypochaeris glabra, commonly known as smooth cat's-ear, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, ingestion in large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to its high fiber content and potential phototoxic compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Hypochaeris glabra toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How easy is it to grow Hypochaeris glabra?
A: It is very easy to grow and requires minimal maintenance.
Q: Does Hypochaeris glabra attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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