Narrow-Leaf Hawkweed

Narrow-Leaf Hawkweed

Hieracium umbellatum

Family: Asteraceae

Medium

Narrow-Leaf Hawkweed (Hieracium umbellatum) is a upright houseplant from the Asteraceae family. Moderate to advanced care requirements.

IndoorToxic to pets
Light
Bright indirect
Water
Every 15 days
Size
30" tall
Difficulty
3/5

Complete Care Guide

Light Requirements

Best near south or west-facing windows with sheer curtains. Wants lots of light but not direct sun rays hitting leaves.

Watering

Very drought-tolerant. Allow soil to dry completely between waterings. Overwatering is the primary cause of death for this plant.

Typical schedule: every 15 days (adjust for season and environment).

Humidity

Tolerates dry air without issue. No special humidity measures needed — works great in air-conditioned or heated rooms.

Temperature

Keep between 5580°F (1327°C). Avoid cold drafts, heating vents, and sudden temperature changes.

Size & Growth

Mature size: approximately 30 inches tall × 24 inches wide. Growth rate is fast. Habit: upright.

Difficulty Level: 3/5

Moderate care requirements. Needs reasonably consistent watering, appropriate light, and attention to humidity. Best for someone with a few plants already.

Quick Tips

  • Water approximately every 14 days
  • Prefers bright indirect light conditions
  • Humidity preference: low
  • Keep between 55-80°F

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves

Cause: Overwatering or sitting in waterlogged soil

Fix: Let soil dry completely before watering. Ensure pot has drainage holes. Reduce watering frequency.

Pale or leggy growth

Cause: Insufficient light — plant is stretching toward the nearest light source

Fix: Move to a brighter location. Rotate plant quarterly for even growth.

Drooping or wilting

Cause: Usually overwatering causing root rot

Fix: Check roots for rot. Reduce watering. Repot in fresh, well-draining soil if needed.

Toxic to Pets

Narrow-Leaf Hawkweed is toxic to cats and dogs. Ingestion may cause oral irritation, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. Keep this plant out of reach or consider a pet-safe alternative.

Browse pet-safe alternatives →

Where to Buy

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Narrow-Leaf Hawkweed safe for cats and dogs?

No — Narrow-Leaf Hawkweed is toxic to both cats and dogs. If ingested, it may cause oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, or difficulty swallowing. Keep out of reach of pets or choose a pet-safe alternative.

How often should I water Narrow-Leaf Hawkweed?

Water approximately every 15 days, but always check the soil first. Very drought-tolerant. Allow soil to dry completely between waterings. Overwatering is the primary cause of death for this plant. Adjust frequency based on season — less in winter, more in summer.

How much light does Narrow-Leaf Hawkweed need?

Narrow-Leaf Hawkweed prefers bright indirect conditions. Best near south or west-facing windows with sheer curtains. Wants lots of light but not direct sun rays hitting leaves.

How big does Narrow-Leaf Hawkweed get?

Indoors, Narrow-Leaf Hawkweed typically reaches about 30 inches (76 cm) tall with a spread of around 24 inches. Growth rate is fast. Size depends on pot size, light, and care.

Is Narrow-Leaf Hawkweed good for beginners?

Narrow-Leaf Hawkweed has a difficulty rating of 3/5, so it's best for intermediate plant parents. It needs more specific conditions to thrive.