Common Hawkweed (Herbaceous Perennial - Not a tree)
Hieracium lachenalii (Commonly confused with Hieracium caespitosum) · Herbaceous perennial flower (non-woody)
Plant Family
Asteraceae
Tree Category
Wildflower / Weed
Variety / Cultivar
Not applicable
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 3 through 8.
About This Tree
While not a tree, this is an upright herbaceous plant with dandelion-like yellow flower heads held on sparsely leaved, hairy stems. It grows from a basal rosette.
Leaf Characteristics
Basal leaves are lance-shaped to elliptic, often with dentate margins and coarse hairs. Stem leaves are much smaller and alternate.
Bark Characteristics
No bark present as it is a non-woody stem; stems are green, cylindrical, and often covered in glandular or simple hairs.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Europe and parts of Asia; naturalized and often invasive in North America.
Growing Season
Perennial; leafs out in early spring, flowers from late spring through summer, and goes dormant in winter.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun to partial shade; prefers moderate moisture but is highly adaptable to dry, poor soils.
Mature Size
Mature height of 1 to 3 feet; spread of 6 to 12 inches via stolons and seed dispersal.
Special Characteristics
High seed production and ability to spread via underground runners; often considered an invasive weed in pastures and maintained lawns.
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides nectar for bees and small butterflies; however, can outcompete native forage and reduce biodiversity in grassland ecosystems.