The Story
Plant Bio
Hieracium maculatum, commonly known as Spotted Hawkweed, is a perennial herbaceous plant featuring rosettes of toothed, lance-shaped leaves with distinctive dark spots. It bears tall stems topped with clusters of yellow, daisy-like flowers.
This species is appreciated for its striking spotted foliage and ability to thrive in well-drained soils, but can self-seed aggressively and may be considered weedy in some regions.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
18 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate, drought-tolerant once established
Humidity
Average garden humidity
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Europe
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
Bloom period
Late spring – Early summer
In flower about 2 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring
- Water regularly until established, about 2 weeks
- Thin seedlings to 8 inches apart for airflow
- Fertilize lightly with balanced fertilizer in spring
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms
- Divide clumps every 3 years in early spring
Pro Tip
Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water during dry spells 🌱
- Deadhead flowers for prolonged blooming
- Divide every 3 years to maintain vigor
Don't
- Overwatering in winter ❌
- Allowing soil to become waterlogged ❌
- Using heavy clay soil without amendment ❌
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Spotted Hawkweed questions
What zones can Spotted Hawkweed grow in?
Spotted Hawkweed is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Spotted Hawkweed deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Spotted Hawkweed, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Spotted Hawkweed bloom?
Spotted Hawkweed typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Spotted Hawkweed need full sun?
Spotted Hawkweed does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Spotted Hawkweed drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Spotted Hawkweed handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Hieracium to compare
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Spotted 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.