Attenborough’s hawkweed

plant

Also known as: Hieracium attenboroughianum

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Last updated

July 22, 2026

Quick Summary

Attenborough's hawkweed, scientifically known as Hieracium attenboroughianum, is a small, hardy plant belonging to the hawkweed genus (Hieracium). This genus comprises over 100 species of weedy herbs native to temperate regions worldwide.12

This particular species is notable for being the only living hawkweed from the British Isles named in honor of Sir David Attenborough. It is considered an endangered species, with a single population of approximately 300 plants found on mountain ledges in the Brecon Beacons, Wales. The plant blooms briefly in the summer, displaying cheerful yellow flowers.3

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10 Organisms Named for David Attenborough
Attenborough’s hawkweed
• What: small, hardy hawkweed, the only living species from the British Isles to be named after David Attenborough. The plant blooms briefly in the summer, sprinkling the remote and rocky landscape with cheery yellow blooms. It is considered an endangered species.
Read More
• What: small, hardy hawkweed, the only living species from the British Isles to be named after David Attenborough. The plant blooms briefly in the summer, sprinkling the remote and rocky landscape with cheery yellow blooms. It is considered an endangered species.
Read More