Capeweed (Arctotheca calendula)

Capeweed

Arctotheca calendula

It blooms bright daisy-like flowers that catch sunlight like tiny suns. Annual or short-lived perennial herb; common names: Capeweed, Cape Marigold.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerates coastal wind and dry, salty conditions
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Watering Water deeply when the top 2 cm of soil is dry; drought-tolerant once established
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Temperature Thrives in cool to temperate conditions; tolerates light frost down to 5°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Rosette of woolly, lobed leaves with silvery undersides; basal leaves up to 20 cm long
  • Flower: Daisy-like composite heads, 3–6 cm wide, yellow ray florets with purple centers
  • Stem: Short, branching stems with sparse woolly hairs
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Care Guide

Watering

Water regularly to support flowering; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot

Fertilization

Diluted balanced feed once every 4 weeks. Use a low-strength, balanced liquid feed to support blooming

Banana peel tea:Soak chopped banana peels in water for 3 days; dilute 1:10 before drenching soil; discard solid peels to avoid pest infestations
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming throughout the growing season
  • Trim back leggy stems in mid-summer to promote bushier, more compact growth
  • Remove yellowing basal leaves to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: No listed toxicity to cats

Humans: No documented toxic effects for humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental groundcover; occasionally used as a forage crop for livestock