Mouse-ear Hawkweed
Pilosella officinarum
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
8 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Low
Humidity
Low to average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Europe and Asia
Toxicity
Low toxicity; may cause skin irritation.
The Story
Plant Bio
Pilosella officinarum, commonly known as Mouse-ear Hawkweed, is a low-growing, mat-forming perennial. It features a basal rosette of hairy, grey-green, spatula-shaped leaves and produces solitary, lemon-yellow, dandelion-like flowers on leafless stems. This species is notable for its vigorous spreading habit and ability to thrive in poor, sandy soils, making it an excellent ground cover for xeriscaping and erosion control.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring.
- Water gently after planting to settle soil.
- Place in full sun for best flowering.
- Mulch lightly to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Fertilize with a balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring.
- Divide in early spring or fall every 2–3 years.
Pro Tip
Ensure well-draining soil to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water during prolonged dry spells 🌱
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage rebloom
- Divide every 2–3 years for vigorous growth
- Apply mulch to conserve moisture
Don't
- Overwater, which can cause root rot ❌
- Allow soil to become waterlogged
- Use heavy fertilization that encourages leggy growth
- Neglect dividing or pruning
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Mouse-ear Hawkweed questions
What zones can Mouse-ear Hawkweed grow in?
Mouse-ear Hawkweed is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Mouse-ear Hawkweed deer resistant?
Yes — Mouse-ear Hawkweed is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Mouse-ear Hawkweed bloom?
Mouse-ear Hawkweed typically blooms in late spring to summer through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Mouse-ear Hawkweed need full sun?
Mouse-ear Hawkweed does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Mouse-ear Hawkweed drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Mouse-ear Hawkweed handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
Keep exploring
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Grow Mouse-ear Hawkweed with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
