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Marsh hawksbeard

Crepis paludosa · Asteraceae

The gardener's calendar

The right move for September

Ideal time to plant marsh hawksbeard: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.

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ID card

Foliage
Deciduous, medium green, basal leaves in rosette
Flowering
June to August, golden yellow flowers in small capitula
Mature size
60 to 100 cm in height
Growth
Fast
Hardiness
Very hardy (down to -15°C)
Origin
Mountain Europe and humid regions
Soil type
Fresh to moist, rich in organic matter

Care

Watering

Marsh Hawksbeard appreciates constantly fresh soil. Maintain soil moisture during the growing period, particularly in summer. In dry climates, water regularly to prevent drying out that would slow flowering. A mulch naturally preserves moisture.

Light Exposure

Install this plant in sun or partial shade. It tolerates partial shade well and still flowers abundantly. Avoid overly shaded spots that reduce flowering. Morning sun is particularly beneficial.

Soil

Prepare rich, humus-laden, well-draining soil, slightly acidic to neutral. Improve the soil with compost or peat before planting. This plant definitely prefers naturally humid environments: areas near water features or sectors that retain moisture.

Pruning

Remove spent flowers to extend flowering and prevent self-seeding if desired. In autumn, cut the plant back to ground level once foliage has dried. No specific pruning is necessary beyond this basic maintenance.

Fertilizing

An application of well-decomposed compost each spring is plenty. Avoid excessive nitrogen fertilizers that promote foliage at the expense of flowers. A plant established in rich soil generally needs no supplementary feeding.

Diseases and Pests

Marsh Hawksbeard is very resistant. Watch for powdery mildew in cases of stagnant humidity and poor air circulation. Slugs may occasionally damage young leaves in very humid areas. Ensure good spacing between plants for air circulation.

Did you know?

Marsh Hawksbeard is part of the classic ruderal plants of alpine and subalpine humid zones. Its yellow capitula resemble tiny dandelions and naturally attract pollinators and hover flies, making it an excellent ally for ecological gardens. In mountain regions, it is a botanical indicator of unsprayed hay meadows.

Where to buy it

Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.

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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.