Mouse-ear Hawkweed

pilosella caespitosa

Also known as: ["Hieracium caespitosum","Hieracium caespitosum var. caespitosum"]

Family: Asteraceae Genus: Pilosella Category: Flowers

Overview

A perennial herbaceous plant with dense clusters of small, daisy-like yellow flowers and hairy leaves, often found in meadows and grasslands.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Asterales
Family: Asteraceae
Genus: Pilosella
Botanical Name: Pilosella caespitosa

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: garden bed or container in open, airy space
  • Suitable For:
    Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • 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 potting mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in early spring or after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate 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 indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.

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 heavy clay soils; refresh soil every 2–3 years.

Temperature

Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoid frost.

Monitor temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; adjust care for seasonal changes.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter

Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; stop in dormant periods.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division of root clumps.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take cuttings.
  2. Apply rooting hormone.
  3. Plant in medium.
  4. Maintain humidity.
  5. Wait for roots.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.

Hormone

Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rate.

Timeline

Roots develop in 3–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining mix.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Cut stems back to a healthy bud or leaf node; thin out dense clusters.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead or overcrowded stems to encourage airflow and new growth.

Tools

Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape plant; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before active growth begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; overcrowding can stunt growth.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

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.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without wetting foliage.
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 for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection if outdoors; avoid cold drafts.

Hot Stress

Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop in excessive heat; growth may slow.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse tools after use.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing of leaves in Pilosella caespitosa can indicate nutrient deficiencies, water stress, or disease, potentially affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Pilosella caespitosa may result from water stress, root damage, or pathogen infection, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Pilosella caespitosa are typically caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to tissue necrosis, reduced photosynthetic capacity, and potential defoliation.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Pilosella caespitosa is often caused by fungal pathogens or excessive moisture, which can lead to decay and plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Pilosella caespitosa is not known to be toxic to cats. It lacks compounds that are harmful to felines.

⚠️ Symptoms:
none
🌿 Toxic Parts:
none
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

While non-toxic, ingestion of large quantities of any plant material may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Pilosella caespitosa is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not produce harmful compounds that would cause adverse effects in canines.

⚠️ Symptoms:
none
🌿 Toxic Parts:
none
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Monitor pets for unusual behavior, but this plant is not expected to cause harm.
Humans
Non-toxic

Pilosella caespitosa is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in moderate quantities.

⚠️ Symptoms:
none
🌿 Toxic Parts:
none
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

While non-toxic, excessive consumption of any plant material should be avoided.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Pilosella caespitosa toxic to pets?

A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: How does this plant spread?

A: It spreads through rhizomes and seeds, often forming dense colonies.

Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

Quick Reference
Family: Asteraceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["busy people (low maintenance)","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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