Spotted Hawkweed
hieracium maculatum
Also known as: ["Spotted Hawkbit","Orange Hawkweed"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with bright orange-red flowers and distinctive spotted leaves, native to Europe and naturalized in parts of North America.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Hieracium |
| Botanical Name: | Hieracium maculatum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a location with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining; avoid heavy clay soils.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate average garden soil.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed after flowering or when growth becomes unruly.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on removing dead or weak parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct sun; avoid dark corners.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-drained, moderately fertile loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid compacted soil; use raised beds for better drainage; mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); thrives in cooler climates.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain consistent room temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options for gentle feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; division of clumps is also effective for mature plants.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in 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.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can root in water initially.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may appear in 2–4 weeks; establish in new pots within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back flower stalks at the base; trim stems just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flower stalks to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; cut dead or damaged parts; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage; loosen root ball; add fresh soil; water sparingly.
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 without wetting foliage. Water until it drains from the bottom, then discard excess to prevent standing water.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth in spring and summer, reducing frequency in fall and winter to prevent root rot. Allow the top inch of soil to dry between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme 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; ensure good air circulation to prevent mold.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or premature flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; 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 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
Slightly ToxicCats are susceptible to mild gastrointestinal distress if they consume Hieracium maculatum. The phototoxic nature of the plant may also cause skin irritation in cats, especially in light-colored or hairless breeds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Hieracium maculatum. The phototoxic compounds present in the plant can cause skin irritation in dogs, particularly in areas with thin fur.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicHieracium maculatum, commonly known as spotted hawkweed, contains phototoxic compounds that can cause skin irritation upon exposure to sunlight. Ingestion may lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort, though severe toxicity is rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Hieracium maculatum invasive?
A: Yes, it is considered invasive in many regions due to its aggressive spreading habit.
Q: Does Spotted Hawkweed attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its bright flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: How should Hieracium maculatum be controlled in gardens?
A: Control can be achieved through manual removal, mowing, or herbicides, though it is resilient and may require persistent effort.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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