SafePlants

Crepis runcinata: Fiddleleaf Hawksbeard

Crepis runcinata, commonly known as fiddleleaf hawksbeard, is a perennial herb belonging to the Asteraceae (Sunflower) family.

Common Names

• Fiddleleaf Hawksbeard
• Dandelion Hawksbeard
• Meadow Hawksbeard
• Naked Stem Hawksbeard
• Scapose Hawksbeard

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Crepis runcinata (James) Torr. &amp A. Gray
• Family: Asteraceae (Sunflower Family)
• Taxonomic Rank: Species
• Synonyms:
  • Psilochenia runcinata (mentioned as the scientific name and derivation information given)
• Subspecies:
  • Crepis runcinata subsp. runcinata
  • Crepis runcinata subsp. hispidulosa
  • Crepis runcinata subsp. glauca

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Crepis runcinata is a perennial plant growing up to 0.6 meters (2 feet) in height.
• It has an open cluster of yellow dandelion-type flower heads, about 1 inch across.
• The plant is described as having a shrub-like development, forming a brush with a rounded form.
• Stems are scapiform, branched near the middle, and can be glabrous or hispid.

Distribution and Habitat

• Fiddleleaf Hawksbeard is found along the Rocky Mountains throughout the United States.
• It is also present in Minnesota.

Traditional Uses

• The text mentions that the Fiddleleaf Hawksbeard has historical uses as a cancer treatment by the Meskwaki.
• It is also mentioned that the Longleaf Hawksbeard has uses as an analgesic by the Shoshoni.

Quirky Facts

• The derivation of the synonym Psilochenia runcinata is noted, with "psilochenia" meaning naked seed and "runcinata" referring to the species.

Further Information

• Discover Life offers a page about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Crepis runcinata.
• The USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database includes information and images of Crepis runcinata.