Deep roots mean it is drought tolerant and actively grows during dry summers.

Like Dandelion, Catsear and Hawksbeard, Hawkbit grows as a rosette, with leaves radiating out from a growing point situated at soil level. Hawkbit leaves are generally narrow (see photo) and are hairy, unlike Dandelion and Hawksbeard.

Once flowering, both Hawkbit and Dandelion have unbranched flower stems. Hawksbeard and Catsear are branched. Dandelion flower stems are fleshier and hollower than the wiry flower stems of Hawkbit.