Mouse-ear Hawkweed
pilosella lactucella
Also known as: ["Hieracium lactucella","Mouse-ear Hawkbit"]
Overview
A small, herbaceous perennial with dandelion-like leaves and bright yellow flowers, often found in grassy areas.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Pilosella |
| Botanical Name: | Pilosella lactucella |
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":"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 potting mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed throughout the growing season; lightly prune after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning to remove dead or overgrown stems.
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
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near west-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 compacted soil; refresh soil every 2 years.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); cooler temperatures in winter promote dormancy.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; maintain consistent room temperature; protect from cold drafts.
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 fall and winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of root clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 3–4 inch cutting.
- 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 conditions with indirect light; maintain 70–75°F (21–24°C) and high humidity.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up root development.
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; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip stems just above a leaf node or lateral bud; remove yellowing leaves.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flower stalks to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape.
Tools
Clean pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape as needed; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage holes; trim roots if crowded; use fresh soil mix; 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 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 organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause root damage or leaf discoloration.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots with bubble wrap; avoid placing near drafty windows.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat leads to dehydration, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with a mister or pebble tray; ensure adequate watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer strength; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a 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-toxicPilosella lactucella is not considered toxic to cats. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicPilosella lactucella is not considered toxic to dogs. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicPilosella lactucella is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Pilosella lactucella toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How does this plant spread?
A: It spreads via seeds and rhizomes, often colonizing grassy areas.
Q: Does it require much care?
A: No, it is very low maintenance and thrives in tough conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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