Rough Hawkbit (Leontodon hispidus)

Rough Hawkbit

Leontodon hispidus

Daisy-like blooms carry sunny charm across grassy meadows. Perennial herbaceous wildflower; common name: Rough Hawkbit.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; thrives in open grassy areas with unobstructed sunlight
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Watering Water regularly during prolonged dry spells; drought-tolerant once established in well-drained soil
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Temperature Hardy to freezing winter temperatures; tolerates warm summer heat up to 30°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Basal rosette of lanceolate, hairy leaves with irregularly toothed margins
  • Flower: Bright yellow daisy-like composite flower heads on slender, branched stems
  • Stem: Hairy, upright stems with few or no cauline leaves
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil slightly moist during active growth periods

Fertilization

No regular feeding required. Thrives in low-nutrient soil; excess fertilizer may reduce flowering

Composted grass clippings tea:Dilute 1:20 with water for root drench; apply only if soil is severely nutrient-poor to avoid overfeeding
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent flower heads to encourage extended blooming through the growing season
  • Trim back faded basal foliage in late autumn to tidy the planting area
  • Thin overcrowded clumps in early spring to improve airflow and reduce competition
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no reported adverse effects

Humans: No known toxicity to humans; safe for handling and incidental contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Pollinator-friendly wildflower for meadows; used in low-maintenance native plant gardens