Bearsfoot
(Smallanthus uvedalia)
Bearsfoot (Smallanthus uvedalia)
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© Michael J. Papay
CC BY 4.0
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© Michael J. Papay
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CC BY 4.0
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Photo by: © Michael J. Papay | License Type: CC BY 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ | Uploader: mjpapay | Publisher: iNaturalist |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Smallanthus uvedalia, commonly known as Bearsfoot or Yellow Leafcup, is a herbaceous perennial native to open woodlands and forest edges in the Central and Southeastern USA and Mexico. It typically grows 0.6 to 3.0 m (24 – 118 in) tall and is known for its large, lobed leaves and tall, sturdy stems. Bearsfoot produces clusters of small, bright yellow, daisy-like flowers in the summer, which are moderately showy and attract pollinators. The entire plant emits a resinous odor when crushed.
Bearsfoot is valued for its bold foliage and cheerful flowers, which can add texture and color to garden borders and naturalized areas. It is relatively easy to maintain and can be used to fill in large spaces due to its size. This plant prefers full sun to part shade and adapts to a range of soil conditions, though it thrives in soils with medium moisture and good drainage. While it is not commonly afflicted by serious diseases or pests, it can occasionally suffer from fungal issues in overly wet conditions. Bearsfoot is not typically aggressive but can self-seed if conditions are favorable, making it a potential volunteer in the garden.CC BY-SA 4.0
Bearsfoot is valued for its bold foliage and cheerful flowers, which can add texture and color to garden borders and naturalized areas. It is relatively easy to maintain and can be used to fill in large spaces due to its size. This plant prefers full sun to part shade and adapts to a range of soil conditions, though it thrives in soils with medium moisture and good drainage. While it is not commonly afflicted by serious diseases or pests, it can occasionally suffer from fungal issues in overly wet conditions. Bearsfoot is not typically aggressive but can self-seed if conditions are favorable, making it a potential volunteer in the garden.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Herb
- Height: 3-8 feet
- Width: 2-3 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: Yellow
- Flowering Season: Summer
- Leaf Retention: Deciduous
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
- Water: Medium
- Drainage: Medium
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers
Natural Habitat
Native to open woodlands and forest edges in the Central and Southeastern USA
Other Names
Common Names: Hairy Leafcup, Bear’s Foot, Yellow Flower Leafcup
Scientific Names: , Smallanthus uvedalia, Polymnia uvedalia, Polymnia uvedalia var. uvedalia, Polymnia uvedalia var. densipilis, Polymnia uvedalia var. floridana, Osteospermum uvedalia, Polymnia uvedalia var. genuina, Polymnia macrophylla, Polymniastrum uvedalia,
GBIF Accepted Name: Smallanthus uvedalia (L.) Mack.