Straggler Daisy (Calyptocarpus vialis)

Straggler Daisy

Calyptocarpus vialis

Low-growing ground cover with cheerful daisy blooms, spreading gently as a living carpet. Common name: Straggler Daisy, Horseherb.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Thrives in full sun to partial shade; tolerates brief periods of full shade and urban heat stress
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Watering Water when the top 2 cm of soil dries out; drought-tolerant once established, requiring minimal supplemental water
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Temperature Hardy to -10°C, withstands summer heat up to 35°C; adapts to mild winter conditions
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Small, oval to spatulate leaves with serrated margins, bright green, arranged oppositely on trailing stems
  • Flower: Tiny yellow daisy-like blooms, 1–2 cm wide, with 8–10 ray florets surrounding a yellow central disc
  • Stem: Slender, trailing stems that root at nodes to form dense, low mats
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Care Guide

Watering

Water regularly to establish root systems; reduce frequency once plants are mature

Fertilization

Light, diluted feed once monthly. Use a balanced, diluted fertilizer to support continuous blooming; avoid over-fertilization to prevent leggy growth

Composted banana peel tea:Steep fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 with water, and apply as a root drench to support flowering and foliage health
Pruning
  • Trim back overgrown mats in early spring to encourage compact, fresh growth
  • Deadhead spent blooms regularly to promote continuous flowering throughout the growing season
  • Thin dense patches to improve airflow and reduce risk of fungal foliar diseases
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no documented toxicity

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Low-maintenance ground cover for lawn alternatives, erosion control on slopes, and trailing accent in container gardens