Eggarton Cottages, Eggarton Lane, Godmersham, Kent, CT4 7DY
Tel/Fax: 01227 730242
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Hardy perennial. Also known as Orange Hawkweed, Devil's Paintbrush and Orange Paintbrush. Clusters of orangey-red flowers on tall stems springing from a basal rosette of dark green oval, hairy leaves. from May to September. 9 in (23 cm) high. Very pretty. Stem exudes a milky sap when broken.
Plant has been in this country since the early-seventeenth century. Its name comes from the Greek hierax, meaning hawk - the hawk was alleged to use the plant to improve its eyesight. Was also believed to aid human eyesight.
Grouse feed on the leaves and seeds; rabbits like the leaves.
Plant in full sun, any soil.
Divide clumps if necessary in spring or autumn.