Hawkweed
Hieracium umbellatum
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Pl. DF60 — Hieracium umbellatum
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IOverview
Overview
Hawkweed (Hieracium umbellatum) is a perennial forb or herb that thrives in light to heavy soils with a preference for moisture levels that are moist. Native to regions including Afghanistan, Alaska, Albania, and Alberta, this plant has spread across various habitats from Europe to Asia and North America. It is known for its edible leaves, which can be consumed as part of one's diet. Hawkweed grows up to 0.8 meters tall and prefers a soil pH range of 5–5.5, making it adaptable to environments with a slightly acidic to neutral soil composition. Its hardiness ranges from zones 5-9, allowing it to survive in diverse climates. This plant is recognized for its light energy requirement, indicating it can grow well in areas with moderate sunlight.
Quick answers
What is Hawkweed?
Hawkweed (Hieracium umbellatum) is a perennial forb or herb that thrives in light to heavy soils with a preference for moisture levels that are moist. Native to regions including Afghanistan, Alaska, Albania, and Alberta, this plant has spread across various habitats from Europe to Asia and North America.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Hawkweed is a perennial forb or herb that thrives in light to medium and heavy soils, preferring sandy conditions. It requires moist soil and grows best in full sun to partial shade. Hardy in temperate regions, it can tolerate zones 5-9. For propagation, divide the roots in spring or fall. Harvest its edible leaves for culinary use. Keep the soil pH between 5 and 5.5 for optimal growth.
Light
6/10
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
5-9
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.8 m tall
Soil pH
5–5.5
For first-time growers
How to grow Hawkweed for the first time
8steps
Start with planting Hawkweed in a beginner-friendly environment, focusing on basic care and maintenance.
- 1
What you'll need
A small plot of light to medium soil, a trowel, and some Hawkweed plants or seeds.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late summer when the weather is cooler.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining with a pH between 5 and 5.5, and loosen it to about 30 cm deep.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants or sow seeds directly into the prepared soil, spacing them about 20-30 cm apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil moist and provide light shade to help the plants establish themselves.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly but avoid overwatering. Mulch around the base for moisture retention and weed control.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune any dead leaves or stems to encourage new growth, but wait until the plant is well-established.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil, and not providing enough light are common issues beginners should avoid.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The leaves of Hawkweed (Hieracium umbellatum) are edible and can be consumed raw or cooked. Typically, they are prepared fresh in salads for their mild flavor. They can also be steamed or sautéed as a side dish. Due to their moist nature, the leaves thrive in light to medium soil with a pH of 5–5.5, making them suitable for gardens with similar conditions.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 30 native
Europe13 regions
native (13)AlbaniaAustriaBelarusBelgiumBulgariaDenmarkFinlandFranceGermanyGreeceHungaryRussiaUnited Kingdom
Asia2 regions
native (2)AfghanistanChina
Americas2 regions
native (2)GreenlandUnited States
Broader regions
native:Alberta, Altay, Amur, Baltic States, British Columbia, Chita, Colorado, Connecticut, Czechoslovakia, Massachusetts, East Himalaya
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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