Picris hieracioides, commonly known as hawkweed oxtongue, is a biennial or short-lived perennial herb native to a wide range of habitats including grasslands, roadsides, and open woodlands across Europe and parts of Asia. It typically grows to a height of 30-100 cm (12-39 inches), with a rosette of basal leaves and erect, branched stems. The leaves are hairy, and the upper stem leaves clasp the stem with auricles. Hawkweed oxtongue blooms from June to September, producing clusters of yellow, dandelion-like flowers that are moderately showy. The plant is known for its bristly appearance, with stiff hairs covering the stems and leaves.

Hawkweed oxtongue is not commonly cultivated but may be found in wildflower meadows or naturalistic plantings. It is valued for its ability to thrive in poor soils and its drought tolerance once established. In cultivation, it prefers full sun to part shade and can tolerate a range of soil types, provided they are well-drained. While not a typical garden plant, it can be used to add texture and interest in informal settings. However, gardeners should be cautious as it can become weedy and potentially invasive outside its native range, particularly in North America and Australia.CC BY-SA 4.0