Cat's Ear

Hypochoeris radicata

Physical Characteristics

Hypochoeris radicata is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from June to September, and the seeds ripen from July to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies lepidoptera. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) 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 and western Asia.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Lawn; Meadow;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Edible Uses: Young leaves - raw or cooked like spinach[5, 52, 53, 183]. A winter salad[100], it is rather bitter[K]. Young leaves are mild and agreeable[217].

Medicinal Uses

Pectoral Pectoral[100].

Known Hazards

None known