Hairy Hawkweed
hieracium villosum
Also known as: ["Hairy Hawkbit","Woolly Hawkweed"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant in the daisy family, characterized by hairy leaves and bright yellow flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Hieracium |
| Botanical Name: | Hieracium villosum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: border plantings or rock gardens in temperate regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- 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 once.
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 plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct sun; avoid placing near east-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; test pH annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain consistent room temperature; use shade cloth outdoors in summer.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce feeding in dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; division of clumps for mature plants.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), indirect light, and warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus soil.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or use clean cuts just above leaf nodes.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged growth to encourage new shoots; shape plant for better air circulation.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape for airflow; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for mature plants to refresh soil.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots; use fresh soil; 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; use mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf discoloration, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; bud drop in fluctuating temperatures.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf damage or dieback in prolonged cold; susceptible to frost injury.
Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; move potted plants indoors during freezes; use mulch to insulate roots.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow in excessive heat.
Solution: Increase humidity with misting or pebble trays; provide shade during peak heat; ensure adequate watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; water before feeding; avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicHieracium villosum is not toxic to cats. No adverse effects have been reported in felines after ingestion of this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicHieracium villosum is not toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines after ingestion of this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicHieracium villosum, commonly known as woolly hawkbit, is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested in typical quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Hieracium villosum toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data to determine toxicity to pets.
Q: How does Hieracium villosum spread?
A: It spreads through seeds and rhizomes, often becoming invasive in some regions.
Q: What are the ideal growing conditions for Hieracium villosum?
A: It thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil, tolerating drought conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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