Foxfire Hawkweed
pilosella aurantiaca
Also known as: ["Orange Hawkweed","Devil's Paintbrush"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with bright orange-red flowers and hairy stems and leaves, native to alpine regions.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Pilosella |
| Botanical Name: | Pilosella aurantiaca |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or sunny borders
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- 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; can tolerate slightly sandy conditions.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; as needed to remove dead or overgrown stems.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control spread.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates 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 seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains for filtered light; avoid south-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-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a pot with drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C); thrives in cooler climates.
Avoid sudden temperature swings; keep away from drafty areas; maintain consistent room temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of root clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Early spring or after flowering 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 initially.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to a leaf node or basal growth; remove dead or damaged foliage.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flower stems to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; cut at an angle; remove debris; clean up afterward.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 cm 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 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil.
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 in the morning to reduce 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 coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in excessive heat; browning leaf edges in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold; vulnerable to frost damage.
Solution: Protect from frost with a cover; move indoors in freezing temperatures; ensure good air circulation to prevent mold.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt or scorch; growth may slow; increased susceptibility to pests.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPilosella aurantiaca is not toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of toxicity in felines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicPilosella aurantiaca is not toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicPilosella aurantiaca, commonly known as orange hawkweed, is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Foxfire Hawkweed invasive?
A: Yes, it is considered invasive in many regions due to its aggressive spreading habit.
Q: Does it require much care?
A: No, it is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in poor soils and full sun.
Q: Does it attract wildlife?
A: Yes, its bright flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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