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Crepis, commonly known in some parts of the world as hawksbeard or hawk’s-beard (but not to be confused with the related genus Hieracium with a similar common name), is a genus of annual and perennial flowering plants of the family Asteraceae superficially resembling the dandelion, the most conspicuous difference being that Crepis usually has branching scapes with multiple heads (though solitary heads can occur). The genus name Crepis derives from the Greek krepis, meaning “slipper“ or “sandal“, possibly in reference to the shape of the fruit. The genus is distributed throughout the Northern Hemisphere and Africa, and several plants are known as introduced species practically worldwide. The center of diversity is in the Mediterranean. Crepis species are used as food plants by the larvae of some Lepidoptera species including the broad-barred white moth. The fly Tephritis formosa is known to attack the capitula of this plant. Seeds of Crepis species are an important food source for some bird species. In Crete, Greece the leaves of Crepis commutata which are called glykosyrida (γλυκοσυρίδα) are eaten raw, boiled, steamed or browned in salads. Another two species on the same island, Crepis vesicaria, called kokkinogoula (κοκκινογούλα), lekanida (λεκανίδα) or prikousa (πρικούσα) and a local variety called maryies (μαργιές) or pikrouses (πικρούσες) have both its leaves and tender shoots eaten boiled by the locals.[citation needed] Skerda is from the Asteraceae family, and is very similar to its relative, the dandelion. Its advantage over a cute weed is that there are much more flowers on the bush, and the beauty blooms throughout the warm season. Of particular interest are varieties with pink flowers (type of skerda red, Crepis rubra). Moreover, this annual is so unpretentious that it can be grown in the country, where you do not get to every weekend. The plant will be able to do without your attention, to endure a short-term drought or a sharp cold snap with heavy rains. Skerda will grow in any soil, the main thing is that there is good drainage and a lot of sunlight. The plant can be sown with seeds directly into the ground, and not be fooled with seedlings. Break through to a distance of 20-30 cm between the bushes. If you want to see flowering early, the seeds are sown in March-April under a film or for seedlings. Skerda is unpretentious and drought-resistant, but regular moderate watering will make it luxurious. In order for the flowering to be lush and long, the fading baskets must be removed immediately. Leave a few inflorescences on the seeds, this will be enough to get planting material next season. Skerda looks great in any planting: it can be used as a curb plant, planted on a hill, or in a flower bed next to other wildflowers. By the way, a very beautiful combination of skerda with yellow and pink flowers is obtained. She will be good in the Moorish lawn. Flowers are suitable for cutting. How not to fall in love with this beauty?
