PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates dry, nutrient-poor growing conditions
Watering
Water deeply only when the top 2–3 cm of soil is completely dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
Temperature
Hardy to mild frosts; prefers cool to temperate temperatures and avoids extreme summer heat
Characteristics
- Leaf: Basal leaves are obovate with toothed margins; upper stem leaves are smaller, pinnately lobed and sparsely hairy
- Flower: Clusters of bright yellow composite daisy-like blooms, 1–2 cm in diameter
- Stem: Erect, hairy, branching near the top to support flower heads
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil slightly moist during active growth periods; prioritize drainage over consistent moisture
Fertilization
No regular fertilization required; avoid high-nitrogen feeds that may reduce flowering. Thrives in low-nutrient soils; excess fertilizer can promote leggy growth and reduce bloom production
Crushed eggshell powder：Crush dried, rinsed eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface to add calcium without introducing excess nutrientsPruning
- Deadhead spent flower heads to prevent unwanted self-seeding in managed garden spaces
- Cut back dead foliage to ground level in late autumn to reduce overwintering pest habitat
- Thin overcrowded seedlings in early spring to improve airflow and reduce competition for resources
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; pyrrolizidine alkaloids may cause vomiting, diarrhea, and liver failure with prolonged exposure
Humans: Contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids; repeated ingestion can cause liver damage; skin contact may cause mild irritation
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Wildflower meadow component; occasional ornamental for naturalized garden areas
