Smooth Hawksbeard

(Crepis capillaris)

Smooth Hawksbeard (Crepis capillaris)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Crepis capillaris, commonly known as Smooth Hawksbeard, is an annual herb that is native to Europe and has naturalized in many other regions, including North America and Australasia. It typically thrives in disturbed ground and open habitats such as meadows, thin grasslands, and roadsides. The plant reaches a height of 12 to 24 inches (30 to 60 centimeters) and has a rosette of basal leaves with slender, branched stems. The yellow flowers resemble small dandelions and bloom from late spring to early fall, adding a splash of color to the landscape. The flowers are not particularly showy but can be abundant.

Smooth Hawksbeard is often regarded as a weed due to its ability to spread rapidly and compete with crops or native plants. However, it can be used in wildflower meadows or naturalistic plantings where its invasive tendencies are less problematic. It prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate a range of soil types, provided they are well-drained. This plant requires minimal maintenance and is drought-tolerant once established. It is not typically grown for culinary or medicinal purposes.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.25-1.3 feet
  • Width: 0.25-1.75 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate, Rapid
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Native to Europe and thrives in meadows, thin grasslands, and roadsides

Other Names

Common Names: Small-flowered Hawksbeard, Hawksbeard Crepis

Scientific Names: , Crepis capillaris, Berinia pinnatifida, Berinia stricta, Crepis agrestis, Crepis agrestis, Crepis bauhiniana, Crepis biennis var. agrestis, Crepis candollei, Crepis capillaris f. bischoffii

GBIF Accepted Name: