Hero

My Garden

Hypochaeris radicata
Common Cat's-ear
Hypochaeris radicata
Hypochaeris radicata, commonly known as catsear, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is native to Europe but has naturalized in many parts of the world, including North America and Australia. It has a basal rosette of hairy, toothed leaves and produces bright yellow dandelion-like flowers on branched, leafless stems. It is often mistaken for dandelions, but the stems of catsear are branched and contain a milky sap, while dandelion stems are unbranched and hollow. The root is edible when roasted.
CategoryDetails
Invasive StatusInvasive Status
Plant TypePerennial plant
Culinary UsageEdible plant
Medicinal UsageMedicinal Usage
Duration to maturity6 months to harvest
Estimated Plant Lifespan2 years lifespan
Sun Requirements6+ hours direct sunlight (Full Sun)
Pollination

Method: insect

Notes: Primarily pollinated by bees and other insects, but can also self-pollinate.

Watering Requirements

Method: Top watering

Frequency: Water regularly, especially during dry periods, but avoid overwatering.

Notes: Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Catsear is relatively drought-tolerant once established.

Humidity Requirements

Level: moderate

Care InstructionsRemove spent flower heads to prevent self-seeding and encourage further blooming. Divide plants every few years to maintain vigor.
Temperature Range

Min: -10°C

Max: 35°C

Alternative Namescat's-ears, Hairy Cat's-Ear, Rough Cat's-Ear, Catsear, hairy cat's ear, false dandelion, Hairy Wild Lettuce, Rough Cat's Ear, Hypochoeris radicata, Spotted Cat's Ear, flatweed
Trifolium repens
white clover
Trifolium repens
White clover is a nitrogen-fixing plant, which can improve soil fertility and benefit nearby plants like catsear.
Bellis perennis
Lawn daisy
Bellis perennis

Both plants prefer similar growing conditions and can compete for resources like sunlight, water, and nutrients, especially in lawns or meadows.

Aphids

Aphids can infest catsear, sucking sap from the leaves and stems. This can cause stunted growth, distorted leaves, and reduced flowering.

Slugs and snails

Slugs and snails can feed on the leaves of catsear, creating holes and potentially damaging the plant.

Steps:

    • Sow seeds in spring or autumn in a well-draining seed starting mix.
    • Lightly cover the seeds with soil.
    • Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
    • Germination typically occurs within 1-2 weeks.
    • Transplant seedlings outdoors after the last frost.

Neem oil

A natural insecticide that can help control aphid infestations.

Iron phosphate bait

Effective against slugs and snails without harming beneficial insects or pets.

Compost

Improves soil fertility and drainage, promoting healthy growth.