Hieracium scabrum — a medium houseplant, prefers partial sun light
SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Hieracium scabrum

Hieracium Scabrum

Updated · 16 observations
ON THIS PLANT

Hieracium scabrum, the rough hawkweed, is a North American plant species in the tribe Cichorieae within the family Asteraceae. It is native to eastern and central Canada and the eastern and central United States from Nova Scotia west to Ontario, Minnesota, and Kansas south as far as Georgia and Oklahoma.Hieracium scabrum is an herb up to 60 cm (2.0 ft) tall with many hairs so that it feels rough to the touch. Leaves are mostly on the stem with only a few at the bottom. Leaves are up to 120 mm (4.7 in) long. One stalk can produce 5-50 flower heads in a conical or flat-topped array. Each head has 30-60 yellow ray flowers but no disc flowers. Flowers bloom July to September. It grows in sandy soils, disturbed and wooded sites.

A note from PlantMom

Rough hawkweed is fairly resistant to disease and typically does not suffer from illnesses. However, it can be vulnerable to pests and diseases present in its environment. These infections are usually mild. In terms of care, the plant requires moderate maintenance. It should be pruned regularly to maintain a neat appearance and healthy growth. Fertilizing can also help encourage flowering. Rough hawkweed is suitable for anyone with outdoor space, such as a garden or patio, and does not demand much gardening experience. It may need more attention when grown indoors.

— PlantMom
CARE GUIDE

How to keep Hieracium Scabrum.

Light

Rough hawkweed favors locations that receive abundant sunlight. It flourishes in such conditions because the sun’s rays boost the plant’s overall vigor. Excessive sun is rarely an issue, while too little light can restrict its growth. Its natural habitat matches this preference for light.

Water

Rough hawkweed thrives in its native environment when watered weekly, as it exhibits a moderate tolerance to drought. The plant needs consistent moisture, though it's important to avoid waterlogging. When grown outdoors, it benefits significantly from natural rainfall, which supports its robust growth cycle.

Temperature

Rough hawkweed can adjust to a wide range of temperatures, but its distribution may still be restricted by different combinations of moisture and heat. It does best in warm summer conditions with sufficient rainfall or watering. Extended periods of cloudy, rainy weather or prolonged high temperatures can increase the chance of Rough hawkweed dying. In winter, adequate protection from cold can improve the plant's survival rate.

Fertilizer

Usually one fertilizer application in spring is adequate for Rough hawkweed, although several feedings can boost growth. Feed once every month to a month and a half. Fertilization improves the leaves' appearance and function, helping maintain uniform color and a healthy texture. It also promotes root development and nutrient uptake for the plant's long-term health.

Pruning

Rough hawkweed has coarse leaves and bright yellow flowers. To promote growth and prevent invasiveness, prune it in early to late spring by cutting back old stems and removing spent flower heads. Be sure to use clean tools to maintain the plant's health.

CHARACTERISTICS

Botanical profile.

Plant Type
Herb
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Hieracium
Family
Asteraceae
Hardiness Zone
3-8
Mature Height
30 cm to 91 cm
Mature Spread
20 cm to 40 cm
Leaf Color
Green, Blue
Leaf Type
Deciduous
Flower Color
Yellow
Flower Size
1.27 cm to 2.03 cm
Bloom Time
Mid summer, Late summer, Early fall
Planting Time
Spring, Summer
Harvest Time
Early fall, Mid fall
ALSO KNOWN AS

Other names.

en Rough hawkweed en Sticky Hawkweed
FREQUENTLY ASKED

Reader questions.

How should I water my Rough hawkweed plant?

To properly water the Rough hawkweed, it is recommended to use filtered water at room temperature. Tap water may contain harmful particles, making filtered water a better choice. Since the Rough hawkweed originates from a warm environment, it is important to avoid giving it cold water, which could be a shock to its system. Additionally, overhead watering should be avoided as it can cause issues with the foliage. Instead, it is best to apply filtered room temperature water directly to the soil until it is thoroughly soaked. This method benefits the plant by moisturizing the roots and aiding in their spread through the soil to gather essential nutrients.

What kind of sunlight does Rough hawkweed require?

Rough hawkweed, like many perennials, requires full sun to stay healthy. It needs at least six hours of sunlight each day to keep its leaves, roots, and blooms in good condition. However, some plants, such as the Orange Daylily or Giant Coreopsis, can survive on just three hours of direct sunlight daily. Although these plants can tolerate less sun, they won't flourish as much as they would in sunnier conditions.

What should I do if I give my Rough hawkweed plant too much or too little water?

Overwatering is a common issue that can harm your Rough hawkweed. Too much water can cause wilting, yellowing of the stems and leaves, and even diseases like root rot, mold, and mildew, which can be fatal to your plant. Underwatering is less common but still possible for this plant, resulting in brittle and brown leaves. It is important to identify the signs of overwatering early to prevent irreversible damage. If you notice these signs, reduce your watering schedule and check the soil's drainage. If the soil drains poorly, replace it with a well-draining potting mix. If your plant is not getting enough water, increase the watering frequency until the signs of underwatering have resolved.

Can the sun harm Rough hawkweed? How can I shield Rough hawkweed from the sun and heat damage?

In warm climates, some Perennial Flowering Plants may struggle with excessive heat and suffer from sun damage. They can wilt, dry out, or even experience growth problems if they are consistently exposed to the intense afternoon sun. However, not all plants require protection from the light afternoon sun. For those that are harmed by intense afternoon exposure, it is recommended to provide them with some shade in warmer climates. Gardeners can achieve this by planting these plants in areas that do not receive direct heat during the afternoon, such as under trees or behind bushes.

How much should I water my Rough hawkweed?

If your Rough hawkweed plant is in a pot, the best way to determine if it needs water is to insert your finger into the soil. If the top 2-3 inches of soil feel dry, it is time to water it. If you are growing your Rough hawkweed outdoors in the ground, you can use the same method to test the soil. Again, if the top few inches of soil have dried, it is time to water it. Typically, during spring and early fall, watering once a week is sufficient. However, during extremely hot weather, you may need to increase watering to twice a week or more. Nonetheless, mature, well-established Rough hawkweed plants have a remarkable ability to withstand drought.

Should I keep Rough hawkweed out of the sun?

Certain perennial plants require ample sunlight to reach their maximum bloom. However, in warmer climates, some of these plants actually benefit from less sun. For instance, individuals residing in hotter regions might find it beneficial to shade their flowering perennials during the intense afternoon sun, especially during summer months. Although many perennial flowering plants prefer partial shade in the hottest climates, there are exceptions. Take the Giant Coreopsis, for example, as it is not bothered by excessive sun exposure. These plants can flourish even when placed in the full sun during scorching weather.

How much water does my Rough hawkweed plant require?

To properly water your Rough hawkweed, don't hesitate to give it a generous amount of water. When the top few inches of soil are dry, it's time to thoroughly water the plant. Ensure that the soil is completely soaked by supplying enough water. You'll know you've added enough water when you see the excess water flowing out of the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot. If you don't see any excess water draining, it means you've likely not watered the plant enough. However, be cautious not to let water accumulate in the soil, as it can harm the plant. On the other hand, if the water doesn't drain properly, it may be due to poorly draining soil, which is detrimental to the plant's health and ought to be avoided. If the plant is outdoors, it should receive around 1 inch of rainfall per week.

What will happen if Rough hawkweed doesn't get enough sunlight?

If Rough hawkweed doesn't receive enough sunlight, you'll see signs of insufficient conditions in your plants. They won't produce as many blooms as they would with full sun exposure. Some plants will have dry spots on their leaves, but most will still bloom despite the limited sunlight. However, the flowers will be smaller and less full.

How do I water my Rough hawkweed as it grows?

The water needs of the Rough hawkweed can vary during different growth stages. In the first few years or after transplantation, it will require more water. During these stages, the plant focuses on developing new roots, which require additional moisture for optimal growth. As the plant matures, it will need less water. Additionally, during the bloom period, the flower development uses a significant amount of moisture, so extra watering may be necessary at this time.

Does Rough hawkweed require specific sunlight care at different stages of growth?

Rough hawkweed is a great flower for gardens. It blooms best when it receives at least six hours of sunlight each day. However, to keep the flowers fresh for longer, it is beneficial to provide some shade during the hottest parts of the day. When the Rough hawkweed is young, it is important to give them enough sunlight while protecting them from intense afternoon heat. For fully mature plants, make sure they receive plenty of sun to support their growth.

How often should I water my Rough hawkweed throughout the year?

The Rough hawkweed has different water needs depending on the season. During the hottest months of the year, it requires more water. In summer, you may need to water the plant more than once per week, depending on how quickly the soil dries. On the other hand, during winter, the plant goes into a dormant phase and needs less water. In fact, you may not need to water it at all during winter. If you do choose to water it, make sure to do so only once a month as excessive watering during winter can increase the chances of the plant getting a disease.

How much light does Rough hawkweed need to make food?

Different flowering plants have varying requirements for sunlight. Rough hawkweed, for example, needs at least six hours of light to support its photosynthesis cycles and promote the growth of its foliage and blooms. On the other hand, the Giant Coreopsis, a perennial flowering plant, requires a longer exposure to the sun. It typically needs between eight to twelve hours of full sun every day to sustain its large flowers and ensure healthy foliage.

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