Rattlesnakeweed

(Hieracium venosum)

Rattlesnakeweed (Hieracium venosum)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Hieracium venosum, commonly known as Rattlesnakeweed, is a deciduous perennial herb native to open woodlands and forest edges in the Eastern United States and Canada. It typically grows up to 45 cm (18 inches) tall, with a basal rosette of hairy leaves and a slender stem. The plant is notable for its striking venation, which resembles a snake’s skin. Rattlesnakeweed produces clusters of 20 flower heads from May to September, each head containing 30–45 bright yellow ray flowers, creating a showy display. However, it lacks the central disc flowers commonly found in other daisy family members.

Rattlesnakeweed is appreciated for its unique foliage and long blooming period, making it a suitable choice for native plant gardens, woodland borders, and as a ground cover in shaded areas. It is adaptable to a range of soil types but prefers dry, sandy soils. While it thrives in shady conditions, it can also tolerate full sun if provided with adequate moisture. Gardeners should be aware that it can spread through seed and may become aggressive in some conditions. It is relatively low-maintenance and can be a good choice for xeriscaping due to its drought tolerance.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 1-2.5 feet
  • Width: 0.28-0.7 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Slow, Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Open woodlands and forest edges

Other Names

Common Names: Rattlesnake Hawkweed, Robin’s Plantain, Veiny-Leaved Hawkweed, Épervière Veinée

Scientific Names: , Hieracium venosum, Hieracium gronovii, Hieracium venosum var. venosum, Hieracium venosum var. nudicaule, Hieracium venosum subsp. nudicaule, Hieracium venosum var. subcaulescens, Pilosella venosa, Hieracium subnudum, Hieracium gronovii var. nudicaule

GBIF Accepted Name: Hieracium venosum L.