Fox-and-Cubs is a
non-native invasive
perennial plant of the UK, typically found growing in urban areas, roadsides and waste ground, to a mature height of up to 40cm.
Fox-and-Cubs is named after the appearance of its clusters of orange flowers and bristly unopened buds. Originally an alpine plant, it was introduced into British gardens in the seventeeth century, ecaped, naturalised and is now found widely distributed across the UK.
Botanic classification and naming: Fox-and-Cubs is a member of the Daisy (Asteraceae) family. The genus name
'Pilosella' identifies the plant as a Hawkweed and its species name 'aurantiaca' means 'orange (flowers)'.
Concerns: The plant spreads easily using horizontal rooting runners (stolons) and can be difficult to control.
Benefits: Pollinated by a range of pollinators and attracts birds that feed on these insects.
Benefits to wildlife are also indicated with orange icons in the plant profile bar at the top.
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