Savoy Hawkweed
hieracium sabaudum
Also known as: ["Savoy Hawkweed","Hieracium sabaudum"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant in the daisy family, known for its bright yellow flowers and hairy stems.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Hieracium |
| Botanical Name: | Hieracium sabaudum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: open meadows or sunny garden borders
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering or every 2–3 months to maintain shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; 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 light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Use raised beds for better drainage; avoid overwatering; test soil pH annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent indoor temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in fall.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps; 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 humid and warm.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 70°F (21°C).
Medium
Well-draining potting mix, such as a mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic bag; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead spent flowers; trim back leggy stems to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to promote reblooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, clean scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged stems; remove spent flowers; shape the plant.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one, with a diameter 2–3 inches wider.
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 the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
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; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels 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 due to stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and can cause leaf damage or dieback if exposed to prolonged freezing temperatures.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; move potted plants indoors; use mulch to insulate roots.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may be reduced in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute properly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicHieracium sabaudum is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not contain known toxic substances that would harm feline health.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicHieracium sabaudum is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known toxic compounds in this plant that would pose a risk to canine health.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicHieracium sabaudum is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It lacks significant toxic compounds that would cause adverse physiological effects.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Hieracium sabaudum toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data to confirm toxicity to pets.
Q: How does Hieracium sabaudum spread?
A: It spreads via seeds and rhizomes, often becoming invasive in disturbed areas.
Q: Does Hieracium sabaudum require much care?
A: It is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in dry, sunny conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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