Hawk's-beard
crepis biennis
Also known as: ["Common Hawk's-beard","Hawkbit"]
Overview
A biennial herbaceous plant in the daisy family, known for its dandelion-like yellow flowers and rosette of leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Crepis |
| Botanical Name: | Crepis biennis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or border in a sunny to partially shaded area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed; lightly prune after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot regions; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-drained, moderately fertile soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use raised beds for better drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F/15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights.
Avoid placing near heat sources; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing before dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Seed or division; stem cuttings may be possible but less common.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Collect seeds or divide clumps.
- Sow seeds shallowly or plant cuttings.
- Keep moist and warm until established.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F/18–24°C), high humidity, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or cactus mix with perlite.
Hormone
Not typically required for seeds; optional for 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
Sow seeds in groups; use bottom heat for faster germination; harden off seedlings before transplanting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead or yellowing leaves; trim back spent flower stalks to encourage reblooming.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged growth to maintain vigor.
Tools
Clean bypass pruners or sharp scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; remove spent flowers; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; repot in fresh well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
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 early in the morning to minimize 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, stunted growth, or premature flowering.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Provide frost protection; move potted plants indoors; avoid sudden temperature drops.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
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 every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are also at risk of liver damage due to the pyrrolizidine alkaloids in Crepis biennis. The effects can be particularly severe due to their limited ability to metabolize certain toxins.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Dogs
Slightly ToxicSimilar to humans, dogs are susceptible to liver damage from the pyrrolizidine alkaloids present in Crepis biennis. Chronic exposure can lead to severe liver dysfunction.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Humans
Slightly ToxicCrepis biennis contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can cause liver damage if consumed in significant amounts over time. The toxicity is cumulative and primarily affects the liver's ability to detoxify harmful substances.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Crepis biennis toxic to pets?
A: No, Crepis biennis is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How difficult is it to care for Crepis biennis?
A: It is very easy to care for, requiring minimal maintenance.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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