Sickle-leaved Hare's-ear (Bupleurum falcatum)

Sickle-leaved Hare's-ear

Bupleurum falcatum

Its sickle-shaped leaves hold quiet herbal grace. Perennial herbaceous plant; common name: Sickle-leaved Hare's-ear.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerates dry, exposed growing conditions
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Watering Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; highly drought-tolerant once established
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Temperature Hardy to -15°C; thrives in cool to temperate climates, avoids extreme midday heat
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Sickle-shaped, glabrous, alternate arrangement with entire margins
  • Flower: Tiny yellow umbels, clustered in flat-topped inflorescences
  • Stem: Slender, branched, green to reddish-brown, rigid upright growth
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil slightly moist during active growth periods

Fertilization

Diluted balanced feed once every 4 weeks. Minimal fertilization needed; avoid high-nitrogen feeds to prevent leggy growth

Eggshell powder top-dress:Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface to boost calcium levels without overfeeding
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent flower heads to encourage tidiness and promote self-seeding
  • Trim back faded foliage in late autumn to clear debris and support new spring growth
  • Remove weak or damaged stems in early spring to improve airflow and plant vigor
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: No known toxicity to cats

Humans: No documented toxicity to humans; used in traditional herbal medicine in controlled doses

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Traditional herbal medicine for digestive and inflammatory support; ornamental wildflower for pollinator gardens