Mouse-ear Hawkweed

pilosella cymosa

Also known as: ["Hieracium cymosum"]

Family: Asteraceae Genus: Pilosella Category: Flowers

Overview

A perennial herbaceous plant with yellow flowers and hairy leaves, native to Europe.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Asterales
Family: Asteraceae
Genus: Pilosella
Botanical Name: Pilosella cymosa

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a location with good air circulation
  • Suitable For:
    Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand; can include organic matter for fertility.
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 removing more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor drainage or incorrect soil conditions.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

easy

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct sun in summer.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage.

Soil

well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Use a mix with good aeration; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.

Temperature

Prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); cooler temperatures (50–60°F or 10–15°C) during dormancy.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; maintain consistent indoor temperatures.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter

Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division of clumps; stem cuttings root easily in moist soil or water.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a healthy cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Plant in moist medium.
  4. Keep warm and humid.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water.

Hormone

Optional but can speed up rooting; use a mild rooting hormone if desired.

Timeline

Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruners, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Snip off dead or yellowing leaves at the base; trim back overgrown stems to encourage bushiness.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead or damaged foliage to encourage new growth; shape the plant to maintain form.

Tools

Clean, sharp scissors or pruners.

Checklist

Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; shape for airflow; dispose of clippings.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil refresh.

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 deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without saturating the soil; allow excess water to drain away.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
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 coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure pots have drainage holes.

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

Slows growth and can cause root damage or death in prolonged cold below 50°F (10°C).

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering in cool periods.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may stall in temperatures above 85°F (29°C).

Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging; use reflective surfaces to reduce heat.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Pilosella cymosa may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Pilosella cymosa can be caused by water stress, root damage, or disease, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Pilosella cymosa may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential leaf drop.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Pilosella cymosa due to excessive moisture or fungal pathogens, causing decay and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Pilosella cymosa is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested or handled by felines.

⚡ Toxic If:

None

No specific safety precautions are required for cats exposed to Pilosella cymosa.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Pilosella cymosa is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested or handled by canines.

⚡ Toxic If:

None

No specific safety precautions are required for dogs exposed to Pilosella cymosa.
Humans
Non-toxic

Pilosella cymosa is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption and handling.

⚡ Toxic If:

None

No specific safety precautions are required for handling or consuming Pilosella cymosa.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Pilosella cymosa toxic to pets?

A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.

Q: How does this plant attract wildlife?

A: Its flowers provide nectar for bees and butterflies.

Q: Is this plant suitable for beginners?

A: Yes, it is easy to care for and requires minimal maintenance.

Quick Reference
Family: Asteraceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["busy people (low maintenance)","outdoor landscapers"]
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