Catsear, flatweed

Hypochaeris radicata

Hypochoeris radicata, commonly known as cat's ear or flatweed, is a perennial broadleaf weed belonging to the Asteraceae family. Native to Europe, cat's ear has become widely distributed and naturalized in various regions around the world. It is often considered a weed due to its ability to colonize disturbed areas, lawns, and pastures. Here's an informative description of Hypochoeris radicata and how to identify it:

1. Morphology:

  • Growth Form: Cat's ear is a low-growing perennial herb with a rosette-forming habit.
  • Leaves: The leaves are lance-shaped, toothed along the margins, and covered with fine hairs. They form a basal rosette close to the ground.
  • Roots: The plant has a taproot system that anchors it firmly in the soil.

2. Flowers:

  • Inflorescence: Cat's ear produces yellow, dandelion-like flowers. The flower heads are solitary on long, leafless stems.
  • Flowering Time: The flowering period typically occurs in late spring to early summer, but cat's ear can produce flowers throughout the growing season under favorable conditions.

3. Seedheads:

  • Seed Formation: After flowering, cat's ear produces fluffy seedheads that resemble dandelion seeds. These facilitate wind dispersal of seeds to new locations.

4. Invasive Characteristics:

  • Colonizing Habit: Cat's ear is known for its ability to form dense colonies, particularly in disturbed areas, lawns, and grassy habitats.
  • Competitive: It competes with desirable grass species for sunlight, nutrients, and space, affecting the quality of lawns and pastures.

5. Identification Tips:

  • Rosette Form: Look for the characteristic basal rosette of lance-shaped leaves close to the ground.
  • Toothed Leaves: The leaves have toothed margins, distinguishing them from some other similar-looking plants.
  • Yellow Flowers: The yellow, dandelion-like flowers on long stems are a key identifier during the flowering period.
  • Fluffy Seedheads: The fluffy seedheads that follow flowering are distinctive and aid in identification.

6. Control and Management:

  • Mechanical Control: Hand pulling or regular mowing can help control cat's ear, especially in lawns or smaller infested areas.
  • Herbicide Application: Selective herbicides designed for broadleaf weed control in lawns can be effective. Herbicide application is often most effective during the active growing season.
  • Preventive Measures: Maintaining healthy and dense grass cover can help prevent the establishment of cat's ear.