Wall Hawkweed
hieracium murorum
Also known as: ["Wall Hawkbit","Mouse-ear Hawkweed"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with dandelion-like flowers and basal rosettes of leaves, often found in rocky or disturbed habitats.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Hieracium |
| Botanical Name: | Hieracium murorum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in partial shade
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining; avoid heavy clay soils that retain excess water.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate average garden soil if well-aerated.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size or shape.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to avoid scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Avoid direct afternoon sun; rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains for filtered light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; adjust based on season and growth stage.
Soil
well-drained, moderately fertile soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil dries between waterings; amend heavy soils with organic matter; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); thrives in cooler climates and may go dormant in extreme heat.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent cool conditions for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps; seeds can also be used but may be slower to establish.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture without saturation.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Optional but can improve rooting success, especially for stem cuttings.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 2–4 weeks; establishment in new pot can take 1–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain high humidity for faster rooting; avoid direct sun during rooting phase.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or trim selectively to encourage branching; remove spent flowers to promote reblooming.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove dead or damaged foliage as needed.
Tools
Clean pruning shears or scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Clean tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 cm in diameter); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for rejuvenation and growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without waterlogging. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry during the day.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth in spring and summer, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce frequency in fall and winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration by avoiding compacted soil.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause leaf discoloration, slowed growth, or dormancy; frost can damage or kill the plant.
Solution: Protect from frost with a cover or move indoors; maintain consistent temperatures above 50°F (10°C); reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or premature flowering; may enter dormancy to conserve energy.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicHieracium murorum is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of toxicity in felines after ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicHieracium murorum is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines after ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicHieracium murorum, commonly known as wall hawkweed, is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It has no known significant toxic effects on human physiology.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Hieracium murorum toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does Wall Hawkweed attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Is this plant suitable for beginners?
A: Yes, it is easy to care for and requires low maintenance.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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