Pilosella

Pilosella is a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae, commonly known as hawkweeds. These perennial herbs are native to Europe and Asia, with some species naturalized in other parts of the world. Pilosella species are characterized by their basal rosettes of leaves and their solitary or clustered flower heads, which are typically yellow or orange. The leaves are often hairy, giving the genus its name, which derives from the Greek word "pilos," meaning "felt" or "wool."

The genus Pilosella was established by the French botanist Augustin Pyramus de Candolle in 1838. It was formerly considered a subgenus of Hieracium but is now widely recognized as a distinct genus. Species within Pilosella exhibit considerable variation in morphology, making identification challenging. Many species are apomictic, meaning they reproduce asexually, leading to the formation of numerous small, distinct lineages. This reproductive strategy contributes to the high species diversity observed within the genus.

Pilosella species are often found in open, disturbed habitats such as meadows, grasslands, and roadsides. They are typically hardy plants, capable of growing in a variety of soil types. While some species are considered weeds due to their invasive potential in certain regions, many Pilosella are valued for their ornamental qualities and are cultivated in gardens. The flowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. Research into the medicinal properties of Pilosella species is ongoing, with some traditional uses documented.