Pygmy Hawksbeard
crepis pygmaea
Also known as: ["Pygmy Hawksbeard"]
Overview
A small, herbaceous plant in the family Asteraceae, native to alpine regions.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Crepis |
| Botanical Name: | Crepis pygmaea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or raised beds with good drainage
- 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 sandy soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown, but avoid heavy pruning in winter.
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
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near east or west-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; amend with organic matter for better structure.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C); thrives in cooler climates and may struggle in excessive heat.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; keep away from drafty areas; maintain consistent temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in late autumn.
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 with at least one node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Allow cut end to callous for a day.
- 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 in the medium.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 2–4 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems for cuttings; maintain humidity with a plastic bag or dome; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut just above a leaf node or bud; remove spent flower stems to encourage reblooming.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools before pruning; prune in early spring or after flowering; remove dead or crossing branches; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage holes; use fresh soil mix; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water is removed to prevent waterlogging; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause root damage and slow growth; frost can be lethal to above-ground parts.
Solution: Protect from frost with a frost cloth; move indoors during cold spells; ensure well-drained soil to prevent cold waterlogging.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; water deeply but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase before fertilizing; dilute fertilizer correctly; avoid over-fertilization; flush soil periodically.
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-toxicCrepis pygmaea is not toxic to cats. The plant has no known adverse effects on feline physiology.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCrepis pygmaea does not pose a toxic risk to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines from this plant.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCrepis pygmaea is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in moderate quantities.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Crepis pygmaea toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.
Q: Where is Crepis pygmaea typically found?
A: It is native to alpine regions.
Q: What are the care requirements for Crepis pygmaea?
A: It requires moderate care, including moderate toughness and maintenance levels.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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