White Hawksbeard
crepis albida
Also known as: ["Hawksbeard"]
Overview
A herbaceous plant in the Asteraceae family, known for its daisy-like yellow flowers and lobed leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Crepis |
| Botanical Name: | Crepis albida |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed in open sunny area, or container with good drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- 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; can tolerate poor soils but benefits from enrichment.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 2–3 months; more intensive pruning annually after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown, but avoid excessive cutting in a single
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates; adjust exposure based on seasonal light intensity.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight to prevent scorching; provide shade during peak midday sun in hot regions; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light cycles.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights but avoids prolonged frost or extreme heat.
Monitor temperature extremes; use shade cloth in summer; insulate roots with mulch in winter.
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; match fertilizer to plant's growth phase.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; 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 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 without waterlogging.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 4–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a cover; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut just above a leaf node or bud; remove dead or crossing branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts; focus on post-flowering or early growth phases.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy or active growth; remove dead/diseased parts; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots to prevent water retention issues.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation and fresh soil.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in shaded area for recovery.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture with a finger; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until the soil is evenly moist but not waterlogged; ensure water penetrates the root ball; allow excess water to drain freely from the pot or soil surface.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and aerated.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or wilting in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in cold stress; bud drop or failure to flower in temperature fluctuations.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow metabolic processes, causing growth cessation and potential tissue damage if below freezing.
Solution: Protect from frost with mulch or frost cloth; move potted plants indoors during cold snaps; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat leads to dehydration, leaf scorch, and reduced vigor, especially if combined with intense sunlight.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or pebble trays; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCrepis albida is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented adverse effects associated with ingestion by felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCrepis albida is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented adverse effects associated with ingestion by canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCrepis albida is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It has no reported adverse physiological effects when ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Crepis albida toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: How do I care for Crepis albida?
A: It requires minimal care, thriving in well-drained soil and full sun.
Q: Does Crepis albida attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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