Origin
Hieracium auricula L. p.p. is a member of the Asteraceae family, which is also known as the dandelion family. The plant is native to Europe, North Africa, and Asia.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as the Mouse-ear hawkweed or Mouse-ear hawk’s-beard due to its small leaves that resemble mouse ears. It is also called the Small-flowered hawkweed.
Uses
Although there is not much research on the medicinal benefits of Hieracium auricula L. p.p., it is believed to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It has been used in traditional medicine to treat headaches, stomachaches, and joint pain. The plant is also used in homeopathy.
Furthermore, Hieracium auricula L. p.p. is an ornamental plant that is often grown in gardens. It is also used as a food source for some animals, such as rabbits and deer.
General Appearance
The Mouse-ear hawkweed is a herbaceous perennial plant that can grow up to 30 cm tall. It has numerous small flowers that are yellow-orange and form in clusters at the top of the stem. The leaves are basal and form a rosette at the bottom of the stem. The leaves are small, oval-shaped, and hairy, which gives them a fuzzy appearance. The plant blooms from May to September and prefers full sun to partial shade. It can grow in a variety of soil types but prefers dry to moist soils.
Light Requirements
Hieracium auricula L. p.p. prefers a moderately bright environment and can tolerate partial shade. However, insufficient light may delay or stunt its growth and reduce flower production. Therefore, it is best to place the plant in a spot with bright, indirect sunlight for optimal growth and development.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is naturally found in temperate climates and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. The ideal temperature range for Hieracium auricula L. p.p. growth is between 10°C to 25°C. However, the plant can survive in temperatures as low as 5°C and as high as 30°C for short durations. It is crucial to note that temperature fluctuations or extreme temperatures can negatively impact its growth and survival.
Soil Requirements
The plant grows well in a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range between 6.0 to 7.0. The soil must be moist but not waterlogged, as excessive moisture can cause root rot and lead to plant death. A regular watering schedule is necessary, but it is equally important to avoid overwatering the plant.
Cultivation methods
Hieracium auricula L. p.p. is a hardy perennial plant that prefers full sun to partial shade. It grows well in well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but it does not thrive in waterlogged soils. The plant can be propagated through cuttings or division of the root system.
Watering needs
The plant requires consistent moisture, but it does not tolerate waterlogging. Water the plants deeply once a week, especially during hot and dry periods. The frequency of watering will depend on the soil type and the climate. Avoid overhead watering, as it can cause fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Apply a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth and abundant blooms. Use a slow-release fertilizer, or apply liquid fertilizer every two weeks. Too much nitrogen can encourage the growth of foliage at the expense of flowers.
Pruning
Prune Hieracium auricula L. p.p. in early spring to remove any dead or damaged foliage. Cut back the stems to about two inches from the ground. Pruning helps to promote new growth and encourages the plant to produce more flowers.
Propagation of Hieracium auricula L. p.p.
Hieracium auricula L. p.p., commonly known as Mouse-ear hawkweed, is an herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to Europe and naturalized in North America. The plant is quite easy to propagate and can be done through several methods, including:
Division
Division is one of the easiest ways to propagate Hieracium auricula L. p.p. The plant develops a dense cluster of basal rosettes, making it incredibly simple to divide the plant into several smaller ones. Spring or fall is the best time to carry out division. Gently dig up the plant and separate the rosettes with a clean, sharp knife. Each section should have ample roots. Replant each section at the same depth, keeping the soil consistently moist until new growth appears.
Seeds
Propagation of Hieracium auricula L. p.p. can be done through seeds. The plant produces an abundance of small, fluffy seeds in late summer or early fall. Collect the seeds by cutting the seed heads and placing them in a paper bag. Leave the bag in a dry, well-ventilated area to dry for a week or two. Once dried, shake the bag to remove the seeds. Sow the seeds in well-draining soil during late fall, pressing them gently into the soil surface. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged until germination.
Cuttings
Propagation through cuttings can be an effective way to get new plants of Hieracium auricula L. p.p. Take cuttings in spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Select non-flowering stems and cut them from the plant, making sure the cutting is at least 3 to 4 inches long and has several leaves. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a pot filled with well-draining soil and keep it in a bright, warm location with consistently moist soil. In a few weeks, new roots will form, and the cutting will begin to grow.
Disease Management
While it is a relatively hardy plant, Hieracium auricula L. p.p. can still be susceptible to a few different diseases. The most common is powdery mildew, which appears as a white, powdery substance on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, it is important to keep the plant well-watered and to avoid overhead watering. Applying a fungicide spray may also be necessary. Another common disease is leaf spot, which appears as small, dark spots on the plant's leaves. To manage leaf spot, remove any infected leaves and dispose of them, and apply a fungicide as needed.
Pest Management
While less common than diseases, there are still a few key pests that may affect Hieracium auricula L. p.p. The most common is the aphid, which feeds on the plant's sap and can cause stunted growth and distorted leaves. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong stream of water to dislodge them, and apply an insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary. Another potential pest is the spider mite, which also feeds on plant sap and can cause significant damage. To manage spider mites, keep the plant well-watered and increase the humidity in the surrounding area. Applying a miticide spray may also be necessary.
