Hieracium umbellatum
Hieracium umbellatum · Asteraceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant hieracium umbellatum: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Form
- Perennial herbaceous plant
- Flowering
- July to September
- Adult size
- 40 to 80 cm tall
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -15°C)
- Origin
- Europe, temperate Asia
- Soil type
- Well-drained, chalky or neutral
Care
Sunlight
Plant hawkweed in full sun or partial shade. It tolerates light shade but flowers more abundantly with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Very shaded locations slow its growth and reduce flowering.
Watering
Water regularly when first planting, then moderately once established. This plant tolerates occasional drought thanks to its deep root system. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings in summer.
Soil and drainage
Hawkweed prefers well-drained, chalky or neutral soil. It adapts well to poor and stony ground. Avoid excessive winter moisture which could rot the roots; improve drainage in heavy soil.
Pruning and maintenance
Remove spent flowers regularly to extend the flowering period and prevent excessive self-seeding. In late autumn, cut dried stems back to ground level to prepare for spring regrowth.
Fertilizing
Hawkweed isn't very demanding. A light application of compost in spring is more than sufficient. On poor soil, a balanced fertilizer applied at the start of the growing season can boost vigor.
Diseases and pests
This plant is relatively disease-resistant. Occasionally watch for aphids and slugs in spring. Powdery mildew may appear in very humid conditions; improve air circulation.
Did you know?
The name "Hieracium" comes from the Greek "hierax" (hawk): the ancients believed that hawks consumed these plants to improve their eyesight. Although this legend is unfounded, it fascinated botanists and herbalists for centuries, giving this humble wildflower an aura of mystery and secret properties.
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.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.