Tuberous Hawkbit (Leontodon tuberosus)

Tuberous Hawkbit

Leontodon tuberosus

Dainty yellow blooms mimic tiny suns, brightening meadow edges. Perennial herbaceous wildflower; common name: tuberous 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 meadow conditions and tolerates mild summer heat
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Watering Water regularly during extended dry spells; tolerate moderate drought once established
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Temperature Hardy to freezing winter temperatures; withstands cool temperate summer conditions
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Basal rosette of lanceolate, deeply lobed leaves with hairy undersides
  • Flower: Daisy-like yellow composite heads, 2–3 cm diameter, borne on slender, branched stems
  • Stem: Slender, hairy stems with few to no leaves; exude milky sap when broken
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist during active growth periods

Fertilization

Apply diluted organic feed once at the start of growing season. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers to prevent excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowering

Banana peel compost tea:Fully compost banana peels before use; dilute 1:20 with water for root drench to avoid nutrient burn
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent blooms to encourage extended flowering through early summer
  • Trim back faded foliage in late autumn to tidy basal rosettes
  • Remove any diseased or damaged leaves to maintain plant health and airflow
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: No listed toxicity to cats

Humans: No documented toxic effects for humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental wildflower; traditional foraging of edible tubers for culinary use