Introduced hawkweeds generally have a leafless stem, rhizomatous roots, and black hairs along the stem and leaves. Introduced yellow hawkweeds are difficult to distinguish from a number of native hawkweeds so inventory is probably incomplete. This is a concern in the Chilcotin where it may not be distinguished from native yellow Hieracium species.

Perennial

The biology of these species is similar to that of orange hawkweed, but these species establish more quickly on drier sites. The introduced yellow hawkweeds, like orange hawkweed, are able to spread very rapidly into areas of disturbance. The disturbed soil at the edge of roads and ditch lines are the pathways of spread. Once established this species is able to colonize undisturbed sites.

Introduced yellow hawkweeds reproduce by seed or vegetatively by stolon or rhizome. Seed production is generally low, but seeds can be produced sexually or asexually without pollination. Seeds are mostly dispersed by animals, people, or vehicles. Although seeds are plumed, they are not spread widely by wind. Seeds can remain viable in the soil for more than 7 years although most germinate within one year of production.

Introduced yellow hawkweeds are currently concentrated in the northern and eastern parts of the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast. Yellow Hawkweeds are expanding aggressively through the Chilcotin, north of Highway 20.