Autumn Hawkbit
scorzoneroides autumnalis
Also known as: ["Autumn Cat's-Ear","False Cat's-Ear"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe and parts of Asia, known for its yellow daisy-like flowers that bloom in late summer and autumn.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Scorzoneroides |
| Botanical Name: | Scorzoneroides autumnalis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container 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, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging; ensure excess water can escape freely.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate sandy or clay soils if amended.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done anytime; major pruning is best done in early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size or shape.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day; tolerates some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in summer; ensure good air circulation to prevent sunburn.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants regularly for even growth; provide shade during peak summer heat; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in dormancy
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid compacted soil; ensure good aeration; use mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); can tolerate light frosts but avoid prolonged freezing.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; maintain consistent temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in fall and winter
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; use a balanced NPK ratio; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture in the medium.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools to prevent disease; maintain high humidity for faster rooting; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools; make cuts just above a leaf node or bud; remove dead or crossing branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, disinfectant (e.g., rubbing alcohol).
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape the plant as desired; remove any leggy stems.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season begins; avoid repotting during dormancy.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one (e.g., +2–3 cm in diameter).
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for rejuvenation and fresh soil.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water after repotting; 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 with seasons.
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 day to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold; roots are susceptible to freezing damage.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base in winter; move potted plants to sheltered locations; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow; soil may dry out too quickly.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicScorzoneroides autumnalis is not considered toxic to cats. It has no known toxic effects or physiological impacts on felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicScorzoneroides autumnalis is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects or physiological impacts associated with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicScorzoneroides autumnalis is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It has no known significant toxic effects or physiological impacts.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Scorzoneroides autumnalis attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators with its late-season blooms.
Q: Is this plant suitable for beginners?
A: Yes, it is easy to grow and requires minimal maintenance, making it ideal for beginners.
Q: Can Scorzoneroides autumnalis be grown in containers?
A: While it can be grown in containers, it thrives best when planted directly in the ground where it has more space to spread.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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