Also known as: French lungwort, Grand-toothed hawkweed
Wall hawkweed (Hieracium murorum), native to Europe, is regarded as an invasive weed in countries to which it has been introduced. It produces a lot of seeds which are dispersed by wind and germinate easily. It also spreads across the ground and forms a dense clump that discourages other vegetation.
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Spring, Summer
Bloom Time
25 cm to 60 cm
Plant Height
1 cm to 2 cm
Flower Size
Yellow
Flower Color
Semi-evergreen
Leaf type
5 - 25 ℃
Ideal Temperature
On This Page
Images
Distribution
Toxicity
Weed Control
Care Guide
FAQs
Images of Wall hawkweed
Distribution of Wall hawkweed
Distribution Map
Wall hawkweed is native to temperate regions of Europe and has also established itself in some parts of North America and Australasia, where it is introduced. The plant thrives in a variety of habitats, adapting well beyond its original range without extensive human cultivation.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Introduced
No species reported
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Habitat
Rocks, walls, grasslands
Hemisphere Trend Curve
Northern
Sorthern
Toxicity
Wall hawkweed is highly toxic to humans, cats, and dogs. Ingestion of any part of the plant causes severe problems like vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, and seizures. Prompt medical attention is crucial for both pets and humans if exposure occurs. Prevent access to wall hawkweed in areas where it grows to avoid accidental poisoning.
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Wall hawkweed originates from Europe. This robust plant has earned its classification as a weed due to its high adaptability and prolific reproduction abilities. Because of its hardy nature and capacity for rapid spread, this plant can quickly establish itself, often overshadowing other garden plants. Its invasive nature not only obstructs the growth of desirable plants, but also depletes the soil of key nutrients needed for the sustenance of other species. Regarded as a peril to biodiversity, wall hawkweed can easily occupy vast landscapes, hindering the growth of native species. The plant's extensive root system poses a challenging threat in the garden, making it difficult to eradicate once established. The primary method of spreading for this weed is by wind dispersal of seeds, allowing it to colonize large territories swiftly and ensuring its survival across diverse climates.
How to Control It
The best season for removing wall hawkweed is early spring or early fall, preferably before the plant has had a chance to flower and distribute its seeds. Here are a few steps to manually control and remove wall hawkweed:
Hand-Pulling: Hand-pulling is effective for small infestations. Wet the soil around the plants to make the roots easier to pull. Then, grasp the plant at the base and pull it upwards out of the ground. Be careful not to leave any root fragments behind.
Mulching: Apply a layer about 5-6 inches deep of organic mulch (like straw, wood chips, or compost) around the plants to suppress new growth. The mulch should be thick enough to block sunlight and prevent germination of new seeds.
Planting Ground Cover: Plant a dense, fast-growing ground cover that can compete with the wall hawkweed. This can inhibit its growth by blocking sunlight and reducing available nutrients.
Crop Rotation: If wall hawkweed is a persistent problem in a garden, considering rotating the types of plants grown in the affected area. This will alter the soil conditions, which may make the environment less hospitable to wall hawkweed.
Vinegar Spray: A solution of 15-20% acetic acid (vinegar) can be sprayed on the foliage of wall hawkweed. This will cause the leaves to dry out and eventually kill the plant.
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Care Guide for Wall hawkweed
Every week
Water
Full sun
Sunlight
5 - 25 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Water:
Wall hawkweed thrives in moist conditions, requiring consistent moisture without saturation. It balances drought tolerance with humidity needs. Weekly watering is ideal, and well-draining soil is crucial to prevent root rot during its growing season.
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