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Mouse-ear hawkweed

Pilosella officinarum · Asteraceae

The gardener's calendar

The right move for September

Ideal time to plant mouse-ear hawkweed: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.

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ID card

Foliage
Evergreen
Blooming
May to September
Mature size
20 to 40 cm tall
Growth
Fast
Hardiness
Very hardy (-20 °C)
Origin
Central and Mediterranean Europe
Soil type
Well-drained, calcareous, poor to medium

Care

Exposure

Mouse-ear hawkweed prefers full sun for optimal flowering, but tolerates partial shade. Place it in a very bright location, ideally facing south or southwest. It adapts well to dry areas and wind-exposed sites.

Watering

This plant is very drought-tolerant once established. Water moderately after planting to encourage root development, then gradually reduce watering. During prolonged dry periods, occasional watering is sufficient. Avoid excess moisture which promotes rot.

Soil and Drainage

Mouse-ear hawkweed appreciates light, well-drained soil that is rather poor. It tolerates chalky, rocky soils and even impoverished ground. Improve drainage with gravel or sand if your soil is heavy or clayey.

Pruning and Maintenance

Cut back the plant after flowering to maintain a compact shape and encourage branching. Remove faded flowers regularly to extend the blooming period. A light cleanup in spring is enough to remove dried parts.

Fertilizer

Mouse-ear hawkweed is undemanding and requires virtually no nutrient input. A single application of balanced fertilizer in spring is sufficient. Avoid excess nitrogen which would promote foliage at the expense of flowering.

Diseases and Pests

This hardy plant is relatively disease-resistant. Powdery mildew can appear in very humid conditions: improve air circulation in that case. No major pests generally affect it. Slugs may damage young plants: protect them if needed.

Did you know?

Mouse-ear hawkweed takes its scientific name in homage to Pilosella, and has been used since antiquity in herbal tea for its properties in traditional phytotherapy. The Greeks and Romans considered it a sacred plant, capable of strengthening the vision of raptors. Its small, persistent pale yellow flowers make it an excellent honey plant highly appreciated by pollinators.

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.