Hieracium saxifragum
Care, watering, light and tips for Hieracium saxifragum on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Asteraceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 0–35 °C
About Hieracium saxifragum
Hieracium saxifragum, commonly known as Saxifrage Hawkweed, is a perennial plant from the Asteraceae family, characterized by its basal rosettes of often hairy leaves and its flowering stems bearing bright yellow inflorescences. It is ideal for rock gardens, alpine settings, or as ground cover in dry, sunny areas, adding a touch of wild color. Its compact habit and hardiness make it perfect for spaces where a long-lasting, low-maintenance bloom is desired.
Native range
Mountains of Central and Southern Europe
Care tips
It requires full sun or light partial shade for optimal flowering and prefers well-drained, even poor or rocky soils, avoiding waterlogging. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry out between waterings, and reduced in winter. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to root rot; ensuring excellent drainage is crucial.
How to save a dying Hieracium saxifragum
- Warning signs
- Wilted, yellowing or pale leaves, soft and drooping stems.
- First aid
- Replant in well-drained soil, water moderately only when topsoil is dry. Place in partial shade.
- What kills it
- Overwatering causing root rot; heavy, clayey soil that suffocates it.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots are not completely rotted and watering/substrate are corrected.