Smooth Cat's Ear

Hypochoeris glabra

Physical Characteristics

Hypochoeris glabra is a ANNUAL/PERENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft). It is not frost tender. It is in flower from June to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

Europe, including Britain, from Scandanavia south and east to N. Africa, Syria and W. Asia.

Habitats

Meadow; Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Edible Uses: Young leaves - raw or cooked[144]. Somewhat bitter, they are used as an emergency food[177].

Medicinal Uses

Aperient Astringent Diuretic Tonic Vulnerary The root is aperient, diuretic and tonic[240]. The leaves are astringent[240]. The whole plant is vulnerary[240].

Known Hazards

None known