Smooth Cat's-ear
Hypochaeris glabra
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
4"–12" H × 4"–8" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May, Jun
Native to
SC
Pollinators
bees, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Smooth cat's-ear is a low-growing annual wildflower that produces small yellow dandelion-like blooms from spring through early summer. This compact plant forms neat rosettes of smooth leaves and thrives in sunny, dry conditions with minimal care.
In an HOA neighborhood
Smooth Cat's-ear takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Resembles dandelions which many consider weeds
- Annual lifecycle creates gaps when plants die
- Can self-seed unpredictably
Wildlife value
The bright yellow flowers attract bees and beneficial flies during the spring and early summer blooming period.
Common questions
- How much sun does Smooth Cat's-ear need?
- Smooth Cat's-ear grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Smooth Cat's-ear bloom?
- Smooth Cat's-ear blooms in March, April, May, and June.
- Where is Smooth Cat's-ear native?
- Smooth Cat's-ear (Hypochaeris glabra) is native to SC, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Smooth Cat's-ear attract?
- Smooth Cat's-ear draws bees and flies.
- Is Smooth Cat's-ear HOA-friendly?
- Smooth Cat's-ear takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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.
Ready to grow Smooth Cat's-ear? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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