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Herbaceous Perennial

Hypochaeris radicata
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

cat's ear

A rosette-forming perennial with hairy, oblong leaves with large, sinuate teeth, and bright yellow, dandelion-like flower heads 3-4cm wide on branched, leafless stems in summer and early autumn

Other common names
Australian cape weed
California dandelion
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0–0.1 metre
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Yellow Green
Autumn Yellow Green
Winter Green
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

West–facing or South–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Exposed
Hardiness
H4
Botanical details
Family
Asteraceae
Native to GB / Ireland
Yes
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
Genus

Hypochaeris can be annuals or herbaceous perennials forming a basal rosette of leaves, with lax cymes of dandelion-like yellow flowers in summer

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Europe to Caucasus

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in a wild flower meadow. Leaves can be used as a salad plant in the winter

Propagation

Propagate by seed

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildflower meadow
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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