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Cape marigold

Scientific Name: Castalis tragus

Family: Asteraceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Subshrub, Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Cape Marigold

The Cape marigold, known for its vibrant daisy-like flowers, is a popular choice for gardens and containers.

Considerations for Pets

  • While one source indicates Dimorphotheca pluvialis is considered non-toxic to dogs, it's always best to prevent pets from ingesting any plant material.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

  • Scientific Name: Dimorphotheca spp. (This encompasses several species.)
  • Common Names: Cape marigold, African daisy, Star-of-the-veldt, Rain Daisy, Namaqualand Daisy, Cape Daisy, African-orange daisy, Cape Daisy, Oxeye daisy, Witbotterblom.
  • Genus: Dimorphotheca
  • Family: Asteraceae (also referred to as Compositae or Daisy family)
  • Synonyms: Dimorphotheca integrifolia, Dimorphotheca calendulacea (for Dimorphotheca sinuata). Osteospermum is sometimes used for closely related plants.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to southern Africa, particularly South Africa.
  • Well-suited for sunny, warm gardens.

Morphology and Growth

  • Daisy-type flowers with colors ranging from orange, yellow, and white to apricot.
  • Typically grows to a height of 4-12 inches.
  • Can be an annual or a low-growing perennial.
  • Some species are described as soft, spreading to erect herbs or shrubs, reaching 0.2-0.5m in height and spreading to about 1m.

Quirky Facts

  • The name Dimorphotheca means "two shapes of seed," referring to the plant's seed diversity.
  • The flowers are known to open around 7 o'clock in the morning and tend to stay closed before rain.

Cultivation

  • Easy to grow, especially from seeds.
  • Prefers well-drained soil.
  • Thrives in full sun.
  • Suitable for containers, pots, path edges, and raised beds.
  • Deer resistant, making it a valuable addition to gardens where deer are prevalent.
  • Can be used as a cut flower.

Uses

  • Ornamental plant, often cultivated for its attractive flowers.

Cited Species

  • Dimorphotheca aurantiaca
  • Dimorphotheca pluvialis
  • Dimorphotheca pulvinalis
  • Dimorphotheca sinuata (also known as Glandular Cape Marigold)
  • Dimorphotheca spectabilis
  • Dimorphotheca tragus
  • Arctotheca calendula
  • Castalis tragus

Community Resources

  • Dave's Garden is mentioned as a friendly community for sharing gardening tips and ideas.

External Resources

  • The RHS (Royal Horticultural Society) offers information on growing Dimorphotheca Cape marigold.