SafePlants

Stinking Hawksbeard (Crepis foetida)

The Stinking Hawksbeard, Crepis foetida, is a rare plant with an interesting history and specific ecological needs. It is making a comeback in its former U.K. homelands after being extinct there for 30 years. It is also known to give off a distinctive smell when touched.

Considerations for Pets

• The plant is known as "stinking hawksbeard" for a reason. While the odor is offensive to many humans, curious pets might investigate, potentially ingesting parts of the plant.
• The plant is described as "somewhat sticky," which may cause discomfort to pets with fur or feathers.

Considerations for Children

• The plant is known as "stinking hawksbeard" for a reason. While the odor is offensive to many humans, curious children might investigate, potentially ingesting parts of the plant.
• The plant is described as "somewhat sticky," which may cause discomfort.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Crepis foetida L.
• Common Name: Stinking Hawksbeard
• Family: Composites (Asteraceae), a large family that includes daisies, thistles, and dandelions.
• Rank: Subspecies, Variety
• Synonyms:
  • C. foetida var. foetida
  • C. foetida var. rhoeadifolia (M. Bieb.) Celak.
  • C. foetens
  • C. graveolens
  • C. prostrata
  • Barkhausia foetida var. foetida
  • Barkhausia graveolens
  • Barkhausia prostrata
  • Barkhausia triangularis

Distribution and Habitat

• The Stinking Hawksbeard has returned to its former homelands in the U.K. after a 30-year absence.
• Specific locations mentioned include Dungeness NNR and Isaacs Ridge.

Ecological Role

• Crepis foetida is a priority species within the UK's Biodiversity Action Plan, indicating its conservation importance.
• The plant's success is linked to grazing management; it thrived where rabbit grazing was excluded, highlighting the complex interactions within its ecosystem.
• Mentioned as endangered in some nature reserves.

Morphological Characteristics

• The plant can grow up to 50cm tall.
• It is described as an upright, somewhat sticky annual.
• Flower heads are initially cylindrical, becoming globular when mature.

Growth Habits

• Duration: Biennial, Perennial
• Habit: Forb/herb
• Height: 24 inches (.6 m)
• Light Preference: Full Sun
• Soil Acidity: Moderate Acid

Quirky Facts

• It is called "stinking" due to a distinctive smell it emits when touched.

Further Information

• Wiktionary
• Australian Plant Census
• USDA Plant Hardiness Map
• Dave's Garden
• Discover Life
• Te Papa's collections