Hawkbits (Leontodon spp.) are dandelion-like flowers in the
family Asteraceae (Compositae). Their English name derives from
the mediæval belief that hawks ate the plant to improve their
eyesight. Although originally native to Eurasia and North
Africa, they have since become established in other countries,
including the United States and New Zealand. Recent research has
shown the genus Leontodon to be para– or polyphyletic, with
genera such as Picris and Hypochaeris nesting within it. As a
result, based on morphology, molecular evidence and
phytochemistry, the former subgenus Oporinia may be raised to
generic level as the genus Scorzoneroides.