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Description
Pilosella Lactucella is a species of plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is commonly known as Mouse-ear Hawkweed or Mouse-ear Pilosella. The plant is a herbaceous perennial that produces small yellow flowers during the summer months. Pilosella Lactucella is native to Europe, but it has been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America and New Zealand.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Pilosella |
Appearance
Pilosella Lactucella is a low-growing plant that typically reaches a height of 10-30cm. The leaves are small and hairy, with a basal rosette formation. The flowers are small and yellow, with a diameter of 1-2cm. They appear in clusters on the top of the stems during the summer months. The plant produces small, fluffy seeds that are dispersed by the wind.
Care Guide
Pilosella Lactucella is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun, but it can also tolerate partial shade. The plant should be watered regularly, but it should not be over-watered as this can cause root rot. Fertilizer can be applied in the spring to encourage growth. Pilosella Lactucella is hardy to USDA zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pilosella Lactucella is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and rust. These can be treated with a fungicide. The plant may also be attacked by slugs and snails, which can be controlled with slug pellets or by hand-picking.
Habitat
Pilosella Lactucella is native to Europe, where it grows in meadows, pastures, and open woodland. It has been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America and New Zealand, where it is considered an invasive species. The plant prefers well-drained soil and full sun, but it can also tolerate partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Pilosella Lactucella toxic to pets?
A: There is no evidence to suggest that Pilosella Lactucella is toxic to pets. However, it is always best to keep pets away from plants to prevent them from ingesting anything that could be harmful.
Q: How often should Pilosella Lactucella be watered?
A: Pilosella Lactucella should be watered regularly, but it should not be over-watered as this can cause root rot. The soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between watering.
Q: Can Pilosella Lactucella be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Pilosella Lactucella can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the plant receives plenty of sunlight.
Q: Does Pilosella Lactucella attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Pilosella Lactucella is an attractive plant to pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Related Plants
- Pilosella Aurantiaca
- Pilosella Officinarum
- Pilosella Caespitosa
- Pilosella Vaginata
References
- “Pilosella Lactucella.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=h270.
- “Pilosella Lactucella.” Plant Database. Accessed September 2021. https://www.plantdatabase.co.uk/Pilosella-lactucella/Details.
- “Mouse-ear Hawkweed.” Invasive Species Compendium. Accessed September 2021. https://www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/116362.
