Fox and Cubs Pilosella aurantiaca
ABOUT
The plant known as fox-and-cubs has an intriguing appearance characterized by its vibrant, tufted flower heads. These flowers boast a striking orange hue, which often creates a dazzling display of color in the areas where the plant grows. The petals have a daisy-like structure, with a central disc surrounded by ray florets that radiate outwards, creating an eye-catching allure. The leaves of fox-and-cubs are basal, meaning they primarily grow at the base of the plant, forming a rosette. They are narrow and elongated, with edges that can range from smooth to slightly toothed. The foliage generally exhibits a green color, though it can sometimes show a hint of grayish-green, providing a soft backdrop for the bright flowers. Fox-and-cubs sends up slender flowering stems that lift the flower heads above the foliage, giving them a floating appearance that is particularly attractive when they sway gently in the breeze. These stems are covered in fine hairs, which can give them a somewhat fuzzy look. The plant can also produce seeds with little tufts of hair, which aid in their distribution by the wind. These fluffy seed heads add to the plant's charm after the flowering season, extending its visual interest into late summer and beyond. Overall, fox-and-cubs is a hardy plant with a lively appearance that can add a splash of color and wildflower charm to a variety of settings, whether it's in a garden or in the wild. Its ability to spread and self-seed makes it a plant that can create an impressive visual impact without much effort.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Fox-and-cubs, Orange Hawkweed, Tawny Hawkweed, Devils Paintbrush, Grim-the-Collier
Common names
Hieracium aurantiacum, Hieracium aurantiacum var. angustissimum, Hieracium aurantiacum var. carpathicola, Hieracium aurantiacum var. hoppeanum, Hieracium aurantiacum var. lanatum, Hieracium aurantiacum var. leiocaulon, Hieracium aurantiacum var. oligocephalum, Hieracium aurantiacum var. pygmaeum, Hieracium aurantiacum var. ruthenicum, Hieracium aurantiacum var. subalpinum, Hieracium carpathicola, Hieracium hoppeanum, Hieracium piloselloides, Hieracium pygmaeum, Pilosella aurantiaca var. angustissima, Pilosella aurantiaca var. carpathicola, Pilosella aurantiaca var. hoppeana, Pilosella aurantiaca var. lanata, Pilosella aurantiaca var. leiocaulon, Pilosella aurantiaca var. oligocephala, Pilosella aurantiaca var. pygmaea, Pilosella aurantiaca var. ruthenica, Pilosella aurantiaca var. subalpina.
ToxicityTo humans
Orange Hawkweed (Pilosella aurantiaca) does not have a widely recognized status as a toxic plant to humans. There is limited information available on its toxicity, but it is generally not considered poisonous. Nonetheless, it is advisable for individuals, as with any plant, to exercise caution and avoid ingesting plants they are not familiar with, as individual allergic reactions or sensitivities can occur. There are no well-documented symptoms associated specifically with the ingestion of Orange Hawkweed by humans.
To pets
Orange Hawkweed is also not well known for being toxic to pets. However, this does not guarantee that a pet will not have an adverse reaction if it ingests the plant. As always, pet owners should supervise their animals to prevent them from eating plants that are not part of their typical diet. If a pet does consume Orange Hawkweed and shows signs of illness, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or unusual behavior, it is essential to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Orange
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Erosion Control: Pilosella aurantiaca, commonly known as fox-and-cubs, can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion due to its mat-forming growth habit.
- Drought Tolerance: Being a hardy and drought-tolerant plant, it can thrive in dry conditions where other plants might not survive.
- Low Maintenance: Fox-and-cubs requires minimal care once established, making it a suitable choice for low-maintenance gardening.
- Attracts Pollinators: This plant produces flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinating insects, supporting biodiversity.
- Ground Cover: Its dense foliage can cover the ground effectively, suppressing weeds and reducing the need for weeding.
- Decorative: With its bright orange flowers, fox-and-cubs adds a splash of color to gardens and can be used in rockeries or along borders.
- Wildlife Habitat: Provides shelter and food for a variety of insects, which in turn can attract birds and other wildlife to the garden.
- Adaptability: It can grow in a wide range of conditions, from full sun to partial shade, and in various soil types.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Pilosella aurantiaca has been traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to reduce inflammation in various parts of the body.
- Diuretic: It is said to act as a natural diuretic, potentially aiding in the elimination of excess fluids from the body.
- Astringent: The astringent qualities of Pilosella aurantiaca might be beneficial in tightening tissues and reducing bleeding.
- Antimicrobial: There is some indication that Pilosella aurantiaca possesses antimicrobial properties, which could be useful in fighting certain bacterial infections.
- Wound healing: With potential wound-healing abilities, it may be used to assist in the healing of minor cuts and abrasions.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- As a natural dye: Pilosella aurantiaca can provide a range of orange to yellow hues for textiles and other materials when used as a dyeing agent.
- Garden landscaping: Its attractive flowers and resistance to drought make it a popular choice for rock gardens and xeriscaping.
- Indicators of ecological change: Due to its invasive nature in some regions, it can serve as an indicator species for habitat disturbance and ecological shifts.
- Companion planting: It may be used as a companion plant in gardens to attract beneficial insects and pollinators with its bright flowers.
- Crafts and decoration: Dried flowers of Pilosella aurantiaca can be used for creating decorative arrangements or in potpourri.
- Bee forage: Providing a source of nectar and pollen, it supports bee populations, which are vital for pollination in gardens and agriculture.
- Study of plant invasion: Researchers can use it as a model organism to study the mechanisms and effects of plant invasions in ecosystems.
- Photography and art: Its bright orange flowers offer a vivid subject for nature photographers and artists.
- Education and science: It can be used as a teaching tool to illustrate plant biology, reproduction, and invasive species management.
- Erosion control: The extensive root system of Pilosella aurantiaca can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion in certain environments.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Fox-and-cubs is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Fox-and-cubs is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Persistence: Pilosella aurantiaca, commonly known as Fox-and-cubs, is a plant that can spread quickly and adapt to various conditions, symbolizing one's ability to persevere and thrive even in difficult environments.
- Invasiveness: Given its invasive nature, Fox-and-cubs can represent an unwelcome takeover or a situation that might get out of control if not managed properly.
- Survival: This hardy plant can grow in poor soil and withstand tough conditions, making it a symbol of survival and resilience.
WaterFor Fox-and-cubs, the appropriate watering regimen depends on the soil condition and climate but generally, the plant prefers moderate moisture. Water the plant deeply once a week with about 1 to 2 gallons per square yard, ensuring that the water penetrates the soil well. During hot or dry weather, you may need to water more frequently to maintain consistent soil moisture. Over-watering or allowing the plant to sit in water can lead to root rot, so ensure proper drainage. It's better to err on the side of under-watering, as Fox-and-cubs is relatively drought-tolerant once established.
LightFox-and-cubs thrives in full sun to partial shade. The ideal spot for this plant is an area where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. While it can tolerate some shade, too much can lead to leggy growth and fewer flowers. An open site that provides bright light without too much shade from trees or buildings is perfect for this species.
TemperatureFox-and-cubs is a hardy plant that can withstand a wide temperature range. It can survive in temperatures as low as -20°F and as high as 90°F, but thrives best in temperate conditions. The ideal temperature range for optimal growth is between 60°F and 75°F. It can tolerate some frost, making it suitable for many temperate climates.
PruningFox-and-cubs benefits from occasional pruning to stimulate growth and maintain a neat appearance. Deadheading spent flowers can encourage further blooming and prevent self-seeding if not desired. Prune in early spring or after the blooming cycle has finished to shape the plant or remove any damaged or overgrown foliage. Typically, pruning once a year is sufficient.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFor fox-and-cubs (Pilosella aurantiaca), prepare a well-draining soil mix with a combination of loamy soil, sand, and compost to ensure good aeration and nutrients. The ideal soil pH for this plant should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 5.8 to 7.0.
RepottingFox-and-cubs (Pilosella aurantiaca) does not typically require frequent repotting. Repot this perennial herbaceous plant only when it seems to outgrow its current container or every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil.
Humidity & MistingFox-and-cubs (Pilosella aurantiaca) is tolerant of a wide range of humidity conditions and can thrive in average atmospheric humidity levels, without requiring any special humidity adjustments for growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in a sunny spot with well-draining soil for indoor growth.
Outdoor
Plant in well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA.
Life cycleAlso known as Fox-and-cubs, Orange Hawkweed (Pilosella aurantiaca) begins its life as seeds that germinate in favorable conditions—usually in disturbed soils with full to partial sunlight. Seedlings emerge and establish a rosette of basal leaves, followed by the development of a deep taproot, which supports the plant's perennial nature. As it matures, the rosette produces one or several flowering stems adorned with clusters of orange-red to yellow flowers, generally blooming from late spring to early fall. After pollination, often by insects such as bees and butterflies, the plant produces seeds that are dispersed by wind, and it can also reproduce vegetatively through stolons that form new plantlets. During the winter months, the above-ground parts of the plant dies back, while the below-ground parts can survive the cold to resume growth in the spring. Throughout its life, Orange Hawkweed can form dense colonies, displaying aggressive behavior in suitable habitats which can lead to its invasive status in some regions.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Fox-and-cubs, more formally known as Pilosella aurantiaca, is commonly propagated through division, which is most effectively done in the spring. To propagate through division, one would gently dig up the clump of the plant, ensuring a generous amount of roots are attached to each portion. These divisions should then be replanted at the same depth they were previously growing. This method encourages quick re-establishment and reduces the stress on the plant. An ideal spacing for the new divisions would be about 12 inches (approximately 30 centimeters) apart to allow enough space for growth. Care should be taken to keep the divisions well-watered until they are fully established in their new location.
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