The
photo at right shows a closeup of the flower heads and spreading hairs to be seen
on the upper stem and within the inflorescence.
Common hawkweed is a weedy species with erect stems arising from rosettes of basal leaves. This species lacks stolons which help propagate the species asexually, and rather has a short rhizome. The herbage has star-like hairs scattered amongst the longer bristles. The leaves that are found on the stems are much reduced in size. The leaves are generally long-hairy or bristly with the lower leaves often greater than 12 cm long. The basal leaves usually taper abruptly to the petiole. The leaves are thin with some or all having a few coarse teeth.
The numerous dandylion-like flower heads are at the upper tip of the stems. The heads contain 40-80 ray flowers which are yellow in color.
Habitat:
Common hawkweed may be found in disturbed soils.
Common hawkweed is an introduced, weedy species from Europe. It has been found near Portland, OR and is expected at other sites on the west side of the Cascades.
In the Columbia River Gorge it may be found west of the Little White Salmon River between the elevations of 100'-3400'
.
