Smallhead cat's ear

Hypochaeris microcephala is a perennial herb that typically grows between 10 and 60 cm in height. The plant has a woody caudex and erect flowering stems that can be either glabrous or sparsely pilose at the base. The stems are unbranched or branched, with branching occurring in the upper half. Rosette leaves are narrowly obovate, ranging from 4.0 to 25.0 cm in length and 1.0 to 5.0 cm in width. These leaves can be entire or pinnatifid, with ciliate margins and may be glabrescent or glabrous. Cauline leaves are similar in shape but tend to be smaller, with the upper ones reduced to scales. The synflorescence is corymbiform or paniculiform, bearing 1 to 13 heads, each containing 50 to 100 flowers. The involucre is narrowly campanulate or cylindrical, 8.0 to 18.0 mm long, with narrowly ovate bracts that are glabrous or sparsely tomentose. The corolla is ligulate, 5.0 to 7.0 mm long, and white in color. The achenes are fusiform, 7.0 to 8.0 mm long, with a 4.0 to 5.0 mm beak and 10 ribs. The pappus is plumose, white, and 7.0 to 8.0 mm long.

Hypochaeris microcephala is commonly found in a variety of habitats, including disturbed areas, open fields, and roadsides. It thrives in temperate regions and is often seen in urban and suburban environments. This species is native to South America and has been introduced to parts of North America, where it has become naturalized.

Hypochaeris microcephala is not typically cultivated for ornamental or agricultural purposes. However, it can be grown in gardens as a wildflower, particularly in areas with well-drained soil and full sun. It is relatively easy to grow and can tolerate a range of environmental conditions. The plant may require minimal maintenance once established, but it can become invasive in some regions due to its rapid growth and ability to spread through seed.

Hypochaeris microcephala is not commonly used for commercial or traditional purposes. However, it may have potential as a source of forage for livestock in some regions. The plant is also sometimes collected for use in herbal remedies, although its medicinal properties have not been extensively studied. In some areas, it is considered a weed due to its ability to colonize disturbed soils and compete with native vegetation.