Autumn Hawkbit – Scorzoneroides autumnalis

The autumn hawkbit is a native, perennial plant belonging to the daisy family. This cheerful yellow flower is recognisable by its deeply lobed leaves, branched stems and daisy-like flowers. The plant blooms from July to October and is found mainly in nutrient-poor grasslands, road verges and dykes. Thanks to its rich bloom and long flowering period, it is an important nectar source for bees, bumblebees and butterflies. A valuable addition to any natural garden or wildflower meadow!\nFor what purposes can I use autumn hawkbit?\nAutumn hawkbit fits perfectly in:\n\nFlower-rich grasslands\n\nWild flower meadows\n\nNatural borders\n\nIt combines well with other native species such as knapweed, ox-eye daisy and meadow cranesbill. Its preference for nutrient-poor soil helps biodiversity with minimal maintenance. Ideal for a low-maintenance, sustainable garden! You can also use it in ecological planting schemes or as part of a bee or butterfly mix.\nWhat are the characteristics of autumn hawkbit?\n\nNative, perennial plant\nHeight: ±30–60 cm\nFlowering: July to October\nYellow flower heads with narrow ray florets\nHighly attractive to bees, bumblebees and butterflies\nSuitable for nutrient-poor soils\n\nHow do I sow autumn hawkbit?\nSow autumn hawkbit preferably between March and May, or in autumn from September to October. Choose a sunny spot with lean, low-lime soil, ideally unfertilised.\nSow the flower seed directly in open ground. Press lightly but do not cover: the seeds need light to germinate. Keep the soil lightly moist for the first weeks. Allow approximately 1 gram of seed per 1–2 m².\nHow do I maintain autumn hawkbit?\nAutumn hawkbit requires very little maintenance. Since it thrives on poor soil, fertilising is not necessary (even undesirable). Mow the meadow 1–2 times per year (end of June and in September), preferably after most flowers have finished and set seed. Remove mowings to encourage soil impoverishment. This gives this species and other native plants the best chance to establish and return.