Rough Hawkbit
leontodon hispidus
Also known as: ["Hairy Hawkbit","False Dandelion"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with dandelion-like yellow flowers and rough, hairy leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Leontodon |
| Botanical Name: | Leontodon hispidus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed in a meadow or open area
- 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: Moderate to fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Loamy, well-draining soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; as needed to remove dead or damaged growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of direct sunlight); adjust based on intensity and season.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from harsh midday sun; place in dappled light indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; avoid intense afternoon sun; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good aeration; avoid compacted soil; maintain consistent moisture.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain consistent humidity.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly; apply to moist soil; flush soil occasionally to prevent buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Division or seed sowing; stem cuttings can also be used.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Prepare medium.
- Take cuttings or divide clumps.
- Plant at appropriate depth.
- Maintain moisture.
Best Time: Early spring or fall when temperatures are mild.
Environment
Warm, humid, and partially shaded conditions.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but can aid root development.
Timeline
Seeds: 2–4 weeks to germinate; divisions: immediate establishment.
Tools Needed
Pruners, trowel, rooting hormone (optional), misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting; use clean tools.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead by cutting just above a leaf node; trim stems to encourage bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape.
Tools
Pruners, scissors, or sharp knife.
Checklist
Clean tools; cut at an angle; remove dead/damaged parts; sanitize after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; repot in fresh soil with good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots; add fresh soil; water lightly.
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 compost or peat moss for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Provide frost protection; move indoors in freezing conditions; ensure good air circulation.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced flowering in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; improve air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to soil; avoid foliage contact.
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-toxicLeontodon hispidus is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented adverse effects when ingested by felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicLeontodon hispidus is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented adverse effects when ingested by canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicLeontodon hispidus 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 Rough Hawkbit edible?
A: Yes, the leaves and flowers are edible and can be used in salads.
Q: Does Rough Hawkbit attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: How does Rough Hawkbit spread?
A: It spreads through seeds and rhizomes, often appearing in lawns and meadows.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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