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Description
Hieracium Umbellatum, commonly known as the Broad-leaved Hawkweed, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia and has been introduced in North America. This plant is characterized by its small, yellow flowers that bloom in clusters and its broad leaves that are covered in fine hairs.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Hieracium |
Appearance
The Broad-leaved Hawkweed has a compact and clumping growth habit that can reach up to 60 cm in height. Its leaves are broad, oval-shaped, and dark green in color. They are covered in fine hairs, which give them a soft texture. The flowers of this plant bloom in clusters at the top of the stem and are bright yellow in color. The flower heads have a diameter of 2-3 cm and are made up of numerous small florets.
Care Guide
The Broad-leaved Hawkweed is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow. Here are some care tips:
- Water: This plant prefers well-draining soil and should be watered regularly, especially during dry periods.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate a range of soil types but does best in loamy soil.
- Sunlight: The Broad-leaved Hawkweed prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant can grow in hardiness zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Broad-leaved Hawkweed is generally pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be affected by aphids, slugs, and snails. To prevent these pests, keep the plant healthy and free from debris. If you notice any pests or diseases, treat them immediately with an appropriate insecticide or fungicide.
Habitat
The Broad-leaved Hawkweed is native to Europe and Asia and has been introduced in North America. It can be found growing in meadows, pastures, and open woodlands. This plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of soil types.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Broad-leaved Hawkweed invasive?
A: Yes, this plant is considered invasive in some areas. It can spread quickly and outcompete native vegetation.
Q: Can the Broad-leaved Hawkweed be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate its growth habit.
Q: Is the Broad-leaved Hawkweed toxic to pets?
A: There is no evidence to suggest that this plant is toxic to pets. However, it is always best to keep pets away from plants to prevent accidental ingestion.
Q: Does the Broad-leaved Hawkweed have any medicinal uses?
A: Yes, this plant has been used in traditional medicine to treat a range of ailments, including stomach problems and respiratory infections.
Related Plants
- Hieracium aurantiacum
- Hieracium pilosella
- Hieracium maculatum
- Hieracium lachenalii
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/wildflowers/hawkweed/wild-hawkweed-plants.htm
- https://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/forb/hieumb/all.html
- https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b707
