Rough hawkweed facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Rough hawkweed |
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| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Hieracium
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| Species: |
scabrum
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The rough hawkweed, also known as Hieracium scabrum, is a fascinating plant found in North America. It belongs to the dandelion tribe, which is a group of plants within the larger sunflower family. Think of it like a big plant family with many different cousins! This plant is native to a wide area, growing across eastern and central Canada, from Nova Scotia to Ontario. It also thrives in the eastern and central United States, stretching from Minnesota and Kansas all the way south to Georgia and Oklahoma.
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What Does Rough Hawkweed Look Like?
The rough hawkweed is a type of plant called an herb. This means it has soft stems, not woody ones like a tree. It can grow up to 60 cm (2.0 ft) tall, which is about as high as your knee.
Its Unique Texture
One of the most interesting things about this plant is its name: rough hawkweed. This is because its stems and leaves are covered in many tiny hairs. If you were to touch it, it would feel quite rough!
Leaves and Flowers
Most of the rough hawkweed's leaves grow along its main stem, with only a few found closer to the ground. These leaves can be up to 120 mm (4.7 in) long. When it blooms, a single plant can produce many flower heads, usually between 5 and 50! These flower heads grow in a shape that can look like a cone or a flat top. Each flower head is bright yellow and has 30 to 60 "ray flowers." These are the petal-like parts you see on a daisy or sunflower. Interestingly, rough hawkweed does not have "disc flowers," which are the tiny flowers that make up the center of a sunflower.
Where Does Rough Hawkweed Grow?
This plant is a true North American native. It loves to grow in many different places across its wide range.
Its Natural Habitat
Rough hawkweed is often found in open woodlands, clearings, and along roadsides. It prefers sunny spots or areas with partial shade. It's quite adaptable, meaning it can grow in various soil types, from sandy to rocky. This helps it spread across so many states and provinces.
Why Is It Called Hawkweed?
The name "hawkweed" comes from an old belief. People used to think that hawks ate these plants to improve their eyesight. While we know now that hawks don't eat these plants for their vision, the name stuck!
Images for kids
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A close-up of the rough hawkweed's yellow flowers.
