Oriental false hawksbeard - Youngia japonica (Taxonomy, Characteristics, Invasive, Images, Control)

Oriental false hawksbeard

Also known as: Japanese hawkweed

Oriental false hawksbeard (Youngia japonica) is a plant species native to eastern Asia. The oriental false hawksbeard grows throughout regions all over the globe, and is considered an invasive weed. This species grows especially well in disturbed areas, lawns, and roadsides.

Scientific classification

Species

Oriental false hawksbeard (Youngia japonica)

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

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Weeds

Weed or not

Annual, Biennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Mid spring, Late spring, Summer, Early fall

Bloom Time

Spring, Summer, Fall

Harvest Time

10 cm to 1 m

Plant Height

Green, Blue

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Brown, White

Fruit Color

Yellow, Brown, Black

Flower Color

Red

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

Images of Oriental false hawksbeard

Distribution of Oriental false hawksbeard

Distribution Map

Oriental false hawksbeard is native across southern Asia, growing in habitats including mountain slopes and valleys, forest edges, stream banks, and ravines. It has been introduced in temperate North and South America, Australia, and Madagascar.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Waste ground, cultivated fields, roadsides

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Symbolism

Innocence, hope

Interesting Facts

Oriental false hawksbeard is capable of crowding out native flora and has become prevalent on every continent except Antarctica. The seeds can spread via wind or rivers and also tend to get mixed up with soil and seed that is packaged for transport. Oriental false hawksbeard is eaten as a vegetable in eastern Asia, but is rarely eaten by humans elsewhere.

Name Story

Oriental false hawksbeard: False dandelion is a common name for some plants that are similar to dandelions. Since it is native to eastern Asia in China and Japan, it is called Oriental false hawksbeard.

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Weed Control

Oriental false hawksbeard is native to parts of Asia and Australia and has spread to much of the rest of the world. It is considered invasive in the United States, including in Hawaii, Maryland, and North Carolina. It is planted in some gardens as an ornamental or a pollinator attracter. However, it reproduces vigorously, with its numerous seeds spreading via wind, water, and agricultural contamination. Young plants can be hand-pulled but oriental false hawksbeard recovers quickly from methods such as mowing when the roots are not removed. Pre-emergence herbicides have also been effective.

How to Control It

The ideal season for controlling the 'oriental false hawksbeard' plant, also known as Oriental false hawksbeard, is spring or early summer. It's crucial to remove this weed before it reaches the flowering stage for efficient control. Now, let's look at some organic or interesting methods for removing this plant.

Hand-pulling: This is a straightforward and environmentally friendly method. When the soil is wet, preferably after a rain, grasp the weed near its base and pull upwards to remove the root system.
Solarization: This is an excellent method to use during the summer. First, moisten the area where 'oriental false hawksbeard' is growing. Then cover the area with a clear plastic tarp, tucking the edges into the soil to trap heat. Leave it in place for four to six weeks. The heat will kill the weed and its seeds.
Smothering: Cover the 'oriental false hawksbeard' patch with several layers of newspaper or cardboard, then add a layer of organic compost or mulch, ensuring you don't leave any gaps for light to penetrate. Over time, the weed will be suffocated and die off.
Use of Weed Flaming: For hard to reach places, a propane torch can be used to burn the 'oriental false hawksbeard'. Be sure to have a water source nearby for safety, and only burn the weed, not the whole plant. It's best to do this early in the day before the wind picks up.
Vinegar Spray: A homemade weed killer that can be effective against 'oriental false hawksbeard' is vinegar. Simply spray undiluted household vinegar directly onto the weed on a sunny day.

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Quickly Identify Oriental false hawksbeard

Rosette of hairy leaves with milky sap when torn

Bright yellow flowers with long ligulate florets

Small achene fruits topped with white pappus hairs

Linear upper leaves clasping stem, up to 4 inches long

Distinctive multi-petal flower head arrangement

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Care Guide for Oriental false hawksbeard

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Oriental false hawksbeard prefers consistent moisture and requires weekly watering for optimal growth. This herbaceous plant exhibits moderate drought tolerance and relies on rainfall patterns, needing increased hydration during dry spells to replicate its natural habitat.

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Images of Oriental false hawksbeard

Distribution of Oriental false hawksbeard

Culture

Weed Control

Quickly Identify Oriental false hawksbeard

Care Guide for Oriental false hawksbeard

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