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IIIFolio · plant profile№ FD2Cedible
Data provenancePermapeopleTreflePFAFreviewed 7 Jul 2026methodology → read
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Smooth Cat's Ear

Hypochoeris glabra
Educational content — not medical, botanical, or professional advice. Plant identification, safety, and edibility depend on local conditions, cultivars, and correct identification. Consult a qualified botanist or forager before consuming or handling wild specimens. How we source & review →
edibleannual, perennialherbperennialedible leafedible
Updated·Quick Q&A →
Hypochoeris glabra (Smooth Cat's Ear) — botanical photograph
Pl. FD2C — Hypochoeris glabra
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Overview

Smooth Cat's Ear, scientifically known as Hypochoeris glabra, is a low-growing forb or herb that thrives in full sun and various soil types, from light sandy to medium conditions. Native to regions including Albania, Algeria, Austria, Belgium, and Bulgaria, this plant is known for its edible leaves, making it a useful addition to gardens where it can grow as an annual or perennial. One distinctive feature of Smooth Cat's Ear is its ability to adapt to both dry and moist environments, contributing to its widespread distribution across different climates.

Quick answers

What is Smooth Cat's Ear?

Smooth Cat's Ear, scientifically known as Hypochoeris glabra, is a low-growing forb or herb that thrives in full sun and various soil types, from light sandy to medium conditions.

Growingconditions · propagation · uses
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Cultivation

Smooth Cat's Ear thrives in full sun and prefers well-draining soil that is either light (sandy) or medium. It can grow in dry to moist conditions but generally needs less water once established. This plant is hardy in temperate regions and can be both an annual and a perennial, making it adaptable for various climates. For propagation, seeds can be sown directly in the garden where they are intended to grow. Harvest edible leaves throughout the growing season.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Life cycle
Annual, Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.3 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Smooth Cat's Ear for the first time

8steps

Smooth Cat's Ear is a forgiving plant for beginners, making it an excellent choice for your first gardening project.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    Seeds or young plants, a small trowel, and a watering can.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in spring after the last frost or in fall before the first freeze.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Choose a well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5, and prepare containers at least 30 cm deep.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Direct sow seeds 1-2 cm deep in the garden bed or transplant young plants, spacing them about 30 cm apart.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overwatering.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Smooth Cat's Ear prefers dry conditions; water only when the top inch of soil is dry. Remove any weeds that compete for nutrients.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune spent flowers to encourage new growth and prevent self-seeding.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in poorly draining soil, and not providing enough sunlight are common pitfalls.

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Edible & utility

Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The leaves of the Smooth Cat's Ear are edible and can be consumed raw or cooked. They are often used in salads for their mild flavor. Skip the preparation details to maintain brevity.
Contextrange · companions · related
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Distribution

30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution across3 continents· 30 native
Europe18 regions
native (18)AlbaniaAustriaBelgiumBulgariaCyprusDenmarkFranceGermanyGreeceIrelandItalyNetherlandsNorwayPolandPortugalRussiaSpainUnited Kingdom
Asia1 region
native (1)Palestine
Africa3 regions
native (3)AlgeriaLibyaMorocco
Broader regions
native:Czechoslovakia, East Aegean Is., Kriti, Lebanon-Syria
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Specimen gallery

1 image
Hypochoeris glabra (Smooth Cat's Ear) — botanical photograph
Smooth Cat's Ear (Hypochoeris glabra)
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About this entry

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