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Description
Crepis Runcinata, commonly known as the toothed hawksbeard, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to Europe and can grow up to 60cm in height. The plant produces multiple stems that bear flowers in clusters. The toothed hawksbeard blooms from June to August, producing yellow flowers that turn into white, fluffy seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Crepis |
Appearance
The toothed hawksbeard has a rosette of basal leaves that are deeply lobed and toothed. The stem leaves are smaller and less lobed, with toothed margins. The plant produces multiple stems that bear flowers in clusters. The yellow flowers are daisy-like and have a diameter of 2cm. The flowers turn into white, fluffy seeds that are dispersed by the wind.
Care Guide
The toothed hawksbeard is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:- Water: The toothed hawksbeard prefers well-draining soil that is kept evenly moist. Water the plant regularly, especially during dry periods.- Fertilization: The toothed hawksbeard does not require fertilizer, but you can apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring to promote growth.- Soil: The toothed hawksbeard prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The pH level should be neutral to slightly acidic.- Sunlight: The toothed hawksbeard prefers full sun to partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: The toothed hawksbeard is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The toothed hawksbeard is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and maintain good air circulation around the plant. If you notice any signs of disease, remove and dispose of infected plant parts.
Habitat
The toothed hawksbeard is native to Europe but has been introduced to North America. It grows in a variety of habitats, including meadows, grasslands, and disturbed areas. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the toothed hawksbeard a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, the toothed hawksbeard is a good plant for attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Q: Can the toothed hawksbeard be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the toothed hawksbeard can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots.
Q: How often should I water the toothed hawksbeard?
A: Water the toothed hawksbeard regularly, especially during dry periods. The soil should be kept evenly moist but not waterlogged.
Q: Can the toothed hawksbeard tolerate frost?
A: Yes, the toothed hawksbeard is hardy in USDA zones 3-9 and can tolerate frost.
Related Plants
– Crepis Capillaris- Crepis Incana- Crepis Nana- Crepis Paludosa
References
– “Crepis Runcinata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c223.- “Crepis Runcinata.” Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, www.rbge.org.uk/plants/crepis-runcinata.- “Toothed Hawksbeard.” USDA NRCS, plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=CRRU.
