Bristly hawksbeard
Crepis setosa · Asteraceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant bristly hawksbeard: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Type
- Annual or biennial herbaceous plant
- Flowering
- Spring to summer (April-July)
- Adult size
- 30 to 80 cm in height
- Foliage
- Deciduous, medium green, hispid
- Hardiness
- Hardy, tolerates temperate winters
- Origin
- Central and Southern Europe
- Growth
- Fast
Care
Exposure
Install bristly hawksbeard in full sun for optimal flowering. It will tolerate light partial shade but will produce fewer flowers. Choose a bright, well-aerated location to promote growth.
Soil
Grow it in well-drained soil, even poor or stony. This hardy plant adapts to ordinary soils and is not demanding in fertility. Avoid overly moist or waterlogged soils that promote root rot.
Watering
Water moderately, especially during dry periods, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Once established, the plant is relatively drought-tolerant. Reduce watering in autumn and winter.
Fertilizer
No fertilizer is necessary if the soil is reasonably decent. A light application at the start of the season is sufficient; excess nitrogen promotes foliage at the expense of flowering.
Pruning and cleanup
Pinch back stems in spring to encourage a compact, branched form. Remove spent flowers regularly to extend the blooming period. At the end of its cycle, pull up the entire plant if it is annual.
Diseases and pests
Bristly hawksbeard is generally robust and rarely affected by disease. Ensure good drainage to prevent rot. Occasionally watch for aphids in early season, controllable by water spray.
Did you know?
Crepis setosa is among pioneering weedy plants, capable of colonizing wastelands and disturbed areas across Europe. Its common name 'bristly' refers to the stiff hairs covering stems and leaves, a botanical adaptation that limits evaporation and provides protection. Despite its modest appearance, botanists find it interesting as an ecological indicator of poor, well-exposed soils.
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.