Saint's Hawk's-beard
crepis sancta
Also known as: ["Saint's Hawk's-beard"]
Overview
A herbaceous annual plant native to the Mediterranean region, known for its daisy-like yellow flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Crepis |
| Botanical Name: | Crepis sancta |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny spot, or container on a patio
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter. Avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very low
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done every 4–6 weeks during the growing season; major pruning in late winter or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate. Avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight if moving from shade. Protect from harsh midday sun in hot climates to prevent scorching. Indoors, place near a south-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; 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 overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of cactus soil and regular potting soil; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Prefers moderate to warm temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates mild frosts but thrives in mild climates.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from extreme fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options for gentle feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division. Stem cuttings are the most common method for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting below a leaf node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), humid, and bright but indirect light. Protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix (e.g., cactus mix with perlite or sand).
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid overwatering new cuttings.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; deadhead spent flowers; trim leggy stems to maintain compact growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to promote continuous blooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or damaged growth; remove spent flowers; shape as desired; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water lightly; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Ensure water penetrates deeply to encourage root growth, and allow excess to drain away. Water in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil dryness.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and aerated.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or wilting in extreme heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf discoloration or dieback. Prolonged cold can damage or kill the plant.
Solution: Move potted plants indoors during frost; use frost cloth for garden plants; ensure good air circulation to prevent mold.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering. Plants may become stressed and vulnerable to pests.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; mist foliage during heatwaves.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCrepis sancta poses a risk to cats due to its pyrrolizidine alkaloid content, which can result in liver damage. Cats are particularly sensitive to such compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe pyrrolizidine alkaloids in Crepis sancta can lead to liver toxicity in dogs, particularly with repeated exposure. Acute ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCrepis sancta contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can cause liver damage upon chronic ingestion. The toxic effects are generally mild in acute cases but can accumulate over time.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Crepis sancta toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.
Q: How does Crepis sancta grow?
A: It is an annual plant that typically grows in disturbed soils and can spread via seeds.
Q: Does Crepis sancta attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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