Marsh Hawksbeard
crepis paludosa
Also known as: ["Marsh Hawk's-beard","Swamp Hawksbeard"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to wetlands and damp meadows, characterized by its yellow flowers and basal rosette of leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Crepis |
| Botanical Name: | Crepis paludosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: moist meadows, woodland edges, or shaded garden beds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining but moisture-retentive.
- Soil Type: Moist, well-draining soil with organic matter, such as peat or compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done as needed; deadheading flowers after blooming is recommended.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size or shape.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sunlight to avoid scorching. Place in a spot with filtered light or dappled shade, especially during intense midday sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Avoid harsh afternoon sun; rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains for filtered light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure good drainage; adjust based on season and weather.
Soil
moist, fertile, well-drained loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of loam, peat, and perlite; avoid heavy clay; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 60–70°F (15–21°C). Tolerates cooler conditions but avoids extreme heat.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; maintain consistent cool conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Use a balanced fertilizer; dilute to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth only.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps in spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings or divide clumps.
- Prepare medium.
- Plant.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
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 for cuttings; moist, rich soil for division.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates for stem cuttings.
Timeline
Stem cuttings may root in 3–6 weeks; division can establish in 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, sharp knife, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Use healthy parent material; keep cuttings moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or bud; remove dead or crossing stems.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers or damaged foliage.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Clean tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as needed; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one, with a diameter 1–2 inches wider.
Method
Gently remove the plant, trim roots if necessary, place in a new pot with fresh soil, and water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound, typically in spring.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots; add fresh soil; water lightly; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
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 allow the soil to dry slightly before the next watering.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during active growth in spring and summer, allowing the top inch of soil to dry between waterings. Reduce frequency in fall and 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, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth and cause leaf discoloration or dieback, especially if combined with wet soil.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; ensure soil is not overly wet.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering, especially if combined with dry soil.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; use diluted fertilizer; apply to moist soil; 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-toxicCrepis paludosa is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented adverse effects from ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCrepis paludosa is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented adverse effects from ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCrepis paludosa 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 paludosa toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: Where does Crepis paludosa grow best?
A: It thrives in wetlands, damp meadows, and shaded, moist environments.
Q: Does Crepis paludosa attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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