Hedgehog Crepis
crepis tectorum
Also known as: ["Tall Hawk's-beard","Steward's Hawk's-beard"]
Overview
A small annual herb with daisy-like yellow flowers and narrow leaves, often found in disturbed habitats.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Crepis |
| Botanical Name: | Crepis tectorum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or meadow setting
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or to remove dead/damaged growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day).
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun if moved from shade. Protect from intense midday sun in hot climates to prevent scorching. Outdoor placement is ideal for full sun exposure.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; ensure unobstructed sunlight.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid overwatering; ensure good drainage.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for nutrients.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates cooler conditions but may struggle in prolonged heat.
Monitor temperature extremes; adjust watering in heat; protect from frost.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, not required otherwise
Use a balanced fertilizer; avoid over-fertilizing; fertilize during active growth only.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or self-seeding.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix, such as a mix of peat and perlite.
Hormone
Optional, but can help speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 2–4 weeks; plants may be ready to transplant in 8–12 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; keep soil consistently moist.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove spent flowers to prevent self-seeding if desired.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape as needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up from the current pot (e.g., from a 4-inch to a 6-inch pot).
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot only if the plant becomes root-bound or outgrows its container. Generally, Crepis tectorum is not heavily repotted due to its fast growth and self-seeding nature.
Checklist
Choose a pot with drainage holes; use fresh soil mix; handle roots gently; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without saturating the soil. Water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water lightly and infrequently, allowing soil to dry between waterings. Reduce watering in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf damage or dieback in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; avoid planting in areas prone to frost pockets.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop in temperatures above 85°F (29°C).
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are susceptible to the pyrrolizidine alkaloids in Crepis tectorum, which can cause gastrointestinal distress and liver damage. Cats may be more sensitive to these compounds due to their unique metabolism.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Crepis tectorum can lead to gastrointestinal upset and potential liver toxicity due to pyrrolizidine alkaloids. The effects are generally mild but can be severe with large quantities or prolonged exposure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCrepis tectorum contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can cause liver damage upon prolonged or excessive ingestion. The physiological impact is primarily hepatotoxic, leading to potential liver dysfunction over time.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Crepis tectorum invasive?
A: Yes, it can be invasive in disturbed areas and is often considered a weed.
Q: Does Crepis tectorum attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its yellow flowers attract bees and butterflies.
Q: How does Crepis tectorum grow?
A: It is an annual plant that thrives in disturbed soils and can spread quickly via seeds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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