Smooth Hawksbeard (Crepis capillaris)

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; thrives in open grassy areas with unobstructed sunlight

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Watering Drought tolerant; water deeply only during prolonged dry spells to avoid root rot

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Temperature Hardy to moderate frost; grows best in cool to temperate seasonal temperatures

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Leaf: Basal rosette of lanceolate, toothed leaves; stem leaves are smaller, clasping the stem
Flower: Bright yellow composite daisy-like heads (1–2 cm diameter) borne on branching, slender stems
Stem: Upright, hairless or sparsely hairy slender stems

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Watering

Water occasionally during extended dry periods; allow soil to dry between waterings

Fertilization

No supplemental fertilization required. Low-nutrient soil supports compact, healthy growth; rich fertilizers may cause leggy stems

Composted banana peel tea：Steep fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours; dilute 1:20 for occasional root drench to support blooming

Pruning

Deadhead spent blooms to encourage extended flowering through the growing season
Remove yellowing basal leaves to improve air circulation and tidy plant appearance
Cut back entire plant to ground level after final flowering to support self-seeding for next year’s growth

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Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: No reported toxicity to cats

Humans: No documented toxicity to humans; young leaves are edible raw or cooked

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Culture: N/A

Usage: Wildflower garden component; edible young leaves used in salads or cooked greens