Tall Hawksweed
crepis setosa
Also known as: ["Tall Hawksbeard"]
Overview
A herbaceous annual or biennial plant in the family Asteraceae, characterized by its tall, erect stems and dandelion-like flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Crepis |
| Botanical Name: | Crepis setosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in open, sunny area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering or every 2–3 months as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
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 hot regions; ensure proper ventilation if grown indoors.
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 direct sun during peak heat.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F/15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights.
Avoid drafts; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from extreme heat or cold.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize sparingly to prevent leggy growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing before flowering.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; seeds can also be sown in spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F/21–24°C), high humidity, and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools; maintain humidity with a plastic bag; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or cut just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Select new pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
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, stunted growth, or premature flowering.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf damage or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Provide frost protection; move indoors in freezing conditions; avoid sudden temperature drops.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may be reduced.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; 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 a 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 susceptible to liver toxicity from pyrrolizidine alkaloids found in Crepis setosa. Even small amounts can cause significant health issues, particularly with repeated exposure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Crepis setosa can lead to gastrointestinal upset and potential liver toxicity due to pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Chronic exposure may result in severe liver damage.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCrepis setosa contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can cause liver damage upon chronic ingestion. The toxic compounds accumulate in the liver, leading to progressive damage over time.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Crepis setosa toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.
Q: How does Crepis setosa grow?
A: It typically grows as an annual or biennial, with tall, erect stems and dandelion-like flowers.
Q: Is Crepis setosa considered a weed?
A: Yes, it is often classified as a weed due to its invasive growth habits.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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