Dwarf Hawkweed
crepis capillaris
Also known as: ["Dwarf Hawk's-beard","Small-flowered Hawkweed"]
Overview
A small, annual or biennial herbaceous plant with yellow flowers and finely divided leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Crepis |
| Botanical Name: | Crepis capillaris |
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":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very low
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; avoid direct afternoon sun; use sheer curtains for filtered light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering; water early in the day.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); cooler temperatures in winter promote dormancy.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop in late autumn.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or self-seeding.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is vigorous.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and warm temperatures (65–75°F).
Medium
Well-draining mix like peat and perlite or cactus soil.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy parent plant; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or trim spent flower stems to promote branching.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Clean pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it’s not too big.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water at base; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly at the base until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water lightly once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or browning in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer spot; insulate pots; avoid drafty areas.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or flower drop in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCrepis capillaris is not known to be toxic to cats. No adverse effects have been documented from ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCrepis capillaris is not known to be toxic to dogs. No adverse effects have been documented from ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCrepis capillaris is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no significant toxic effects or physiological impacts reported from ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Crepis capillaris toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.
Q: How do I control Crepis capillaris in my garden?
A: Hand-pulling or hoeing is effective due to its shallow root system.
Q: Does Crepis capillaris attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies with its yellow flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
