Common Cat's-ear
Hypochaeris radicata
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Description
Common Cat's-ear (Hypochaeris radicata) is a perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe and parts of Asia, now widespread in temperate regions worldwide, including North America and Australia. It is often found in lawns, roadsides, and disturbed areas. The plant is characterized by its basal rosette of leaves and bright yellow flower heads that resemble those of the dandelion. In agroecology and regenerative agriculture, Common Cat's-ear serves as a valuable ground cover, protecting soil from erosion and enhancing soil health through its deep taproot system, which aids in nutrient cycling and soil aeration. It is an important forage plant for pollinators, contributing to biodiversity. Historically, it has been used in traditional European herbal medicine. In a food forest system, it can function as a ground cover layer, and it pairs well with other low-growing plants like clover, which can help fix nitrogen in the soil.
Growing Details
Common Cat's-ear thrives in well-drained soils and full sun. It can tolerate poor soil conditions and drought once established. To prepare the soil, ensure it is well-aerated and free of heavy compaction. Mulching around the plants helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include clover, which can enhance soil nitrogen levels. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Harvest leaves when young for the best flavor, and store them in a cool, dry place. The roots can be ha
Edible Parts
Leaves
Flowers
Tags
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Erosion Preventing
Bee Friendly
Invasive
Meadow
Visual Appeal
Easy Propagating
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Hypochaeris radicata</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to Europe and parts of Asia
applicable geo region: Temperate regions worldwide
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of May for 90 days
Harvest:
beginning
of July for 60 days
Seed Start:
beginning
of April
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(3/5)
edible uses: The leaves of Common Cat's-ear can be consumed raw or cooked, similar to dandelion greens, and are often used in salads or as a cooked vegetable. The roots can be roasted and used as a coffee substitute. The flowers are also edible and can be used as a garnish. It is important to harvest young leaves for the best flavor, as older leaves can become bitter.
Medicinal Rating:
(2/5)
medicinal uses: Traditionally, Common Cat's-ear has been used for its diuretic properties and to support liver and gallbladder health. It is also believed to have mild anti-inflammatory effects. However, it should be used with caution, as excessive consumption can lead to digestive upset.
health concerns: Excessive consumption may cause digestive upset.
other uses: The plant can be used as a green manure or mulch to improve soil organic matter. Its deep roots help break up compacted soil.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Hypochaeris radicata
common names: Cat's-ear; Flatweed; False Dandelion
family: Asteraceae
sub family:
tribe: Cichorieae
sub tribe:
genus: Hypochaeris
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.1 m
spacing: 0.3 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 15ยฐC / 25ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 18ยฐC / 10ยฐC / 30ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Deep
frost tender: Low
hardness:
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(7/10)
first harvest: 0 years
life span: 0 years
succession: Pioneer
growth rate: Fast
max height: 0.6 m
max width: 0.3 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Common Cat's-ear thrives in well-drained soils and full sun. It can tolerate poor soil conditions and drought once established. To prepare the soil, ensure it is well-aerated and free of heavy compaction. Mulching around the plants helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include clover, which can enhance soil nitrogen levels. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Harvest leaves when young for the best flavor, and store them in a cool, dry place. The roots can be ha
Potential Disturbances: Common pests include aphids and slugs. Natural pest management strategies include introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to control aphid populations. Planting garlic or chives nearby can help deter slugs. Neem oil can be used as an organic spray to manage pest outbreaks.
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