King-Devil Hawkweed
Hieracium piloselloides
Plant Description
King devil hawkweed, a perennial plant native to Europe, is an aggressive invasive species in parts of Oregon. It spreads both by seed and creeping stolons (runners), quickly forming dense mats that crowd out native plants and reduce forage for wildlife and livestock. This hawkweed prefers disturbed soils, meadows, pastures, forest openings, and roadsides, where it can dominate and suppress natural plant diversity. Its invasion alters soil chemistry and ecosystem function, making recovery of native vegetation difficult once it is established. Because of its persistence and ability to spread rapidly, king devil hawkweed is a significant concern for land managers working to protect Oregon’s natural areas and rangelands.
Plant Details
| Life Forms | |
|---|---|
| Habitats | |
| ODA Listing | |
| Soil and Moisture Conditions | |
| Suggested Actions | |
| Shade Preference | |
| Mature Height | 10-36"+ |
| Distribution | Not known to exisit in Oregon. |
| Control | If this plant is found, report to OregonInvasivesHotline.org for ID confirmation and control assistance. |
| Reproduction and Spread | Spreads by underground creeping rhizomes, as well as by seeds and root buds. |
| Introduced | From Europe |
| Look Alikes | Other hawkweeds and dandelions |
| Impact | Rapidly produces mats of rosettes that prevent other species from thriving. Allelopathic compounds prevent other plants from establishing. |
| More Info |