Crete Hedgehog Plant Care

Crete Hedgehog (Hedypnois cretica) belongs to the Asteraceae family within the Hedypnois genus. Crete Hedgehog is native to the Mediterranean Region and neighboring areas from Canary Islands to Iran, and naturalized in Australia and in parts of the Americas. Crete Hedgehog is also known as Hedypnois annua, Hedypnois coronopifolia, Hedypnois crepidiformis.

Crete Hedgehog displays a low-growing, spreading perennial growth habit, reaching up to 2 ft tall with a spread of approximately 1 ft. Crete Hedgehog produces small yellow daisy-like flowers in clusters.

Leaf size: approximately 3 inches.

Hedypnois cretica requires watering every 7–14 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.

Crete Hedgehog thrives in full sun to partial shade.

Hedypnois cretica grows best at temperatures of 60–80°F. Crete Hedgehog prefers humidity levels of 50–70%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.

Well-draining sandy loam with added organic matter for moisture retention. Good drainage is essential for Crete Hedgehog to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Crete Hedgehog every month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer diluted to the strength on the label.

Pause feeding in autumn and winter, when growth slows, and never fertilize dry soil — water first.

The PlantoScan app can remind you when to water and when to fertilize each plant.

Repot every 2-3 years in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.

Crete Hedgehog can be propagated through seeds, division of root ball.

See all plants toxic to cats and plants toxic to dogs.

Crete Hedgehog is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, whiteflies. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

Yellow leaves, brown tips or drooping? See common plant problems and how to fix them.

Crete Hedgehog grows outdoors in USDA Zone 8a – 11b. It survives winters down to planting zone 8a. Crete Hedgehog is native to the Mediterranean Region and neighboring areas from Canary Islands to Iran, and naturalized in Australia and in parts of the Americas.