SafePlants

Calotis: The Burr-daisy Genus

Calotis is a genus of herbs or small shrubs belonging to the daisy family, Asteraceae.

Considerations for Pets

• Some Calotis species produce burrs. For example, Calotis cuneifolia produces small burrs that can be troublesome to pets' feet and may get caught in blankets.
• Calotis glandulosa has spiny and/or winged structures, which might pose a risk of minor injury.

Considerations for Children

• Some Calotis species produce burrs. For example, Calotis cuneifolia produces small burrs that can be an annoyance.
• Calotis glandulosa has spiny and/or winged structures.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Family: Asteraceae (Daisy family)
• Genus: Calotis
• The name Calotis comes from the Greek words 'kalos' (beautiful) and 'otos' (ear), inspired by the ear-shaped appendages of the first named species, Calotis cuneifolia.

Species Examples and Synonyms

• Calotis cuneifolia R.Br. Common names include Purple Burr-daisy, Burr-daisy, Bindi-eye, and Blue Burr-daisy.
• Calotis lappulacea. Common names include Yellow Burr-daisy.
• Calotis scabiosifolia, commonly known as the Rough Burr-Daisy.
• Calotis multicaulis (Turcz.) Druce
• Calotis hispidula (Hairy Burr-daisy)
• Synonym: Calotis erinacea var. biaristata, also known as Tangled Burr Daisy.

Distribution and Habitat

• Most Calotis species are native to Australia.
• Two species are found in Asia.
• Calotis hispidula is found in all mainland States of Australia.

Morphology and Growth Habits

• Calotis species can be annual or perennial herbs or small shrubs.
• Leaves are cauline and/or basal, alternate, and flat, with margins usually toothed or lobed.
• Calotis scabiosifolia is described as an erect, perennial forb (non-woody herb).
• Calotis lappulacea is a small, perennial herb (up to 40cm tall and 1m in diameter).
• Calotis hispidula is a prostrate to ascending annual with stem to 12cm long.

Quirky Facts

• Calotis cuneifolia is named for its ear-shaped appendages.
• One source suggests Australian wedgeleaf (likely a *Calotis* species) may have been imported to Massachusetts via shipments of raw wool or on farm animals.

Ecological Role

• Calotis lappulacea is sometimes considered a weed.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Calotis species interact with insects and other plants.

Chemical Compounds

• The aerial parts of Calotis dentex contain C10-acetylenic esters and Z-dehydromatricarianol acetate.

Further Information

• PLANTnet: http://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Calotis~cuneifolia