Mouse-ear Hawkweed
Hieracium pilosella
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
4"–12" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
MA
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Mouse-ear hawkweed is a low-growing perennial that forms dense mats with fuzzy, silvery-green leaves and bright yellow dandelion-like flowers. This European native spreads aggressively by runners and can quickly colonize large areas. It blooms from late spring through summer and tolerates poor, dry soils.
In an HOA neighborhood
Mouse-ear Hawkweed takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Aggressive spreader that can overtake lawns
- Considered invasive in many areas
- Creates irregular patchy appearance
Wildlife value
The bright yellow flowers attract bees and beetles during the long blooming season from May through August.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Mouse-ear Hawkweed fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.