Cape dandelion
Arctotheca calendula · Asteraceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant cape dandelion: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Evergreen to semi-evergreen
- Flowering
- Spring to summer (March to July)
- Adult size
- 20 to 40 cm tall, spreading habit
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Zones 9 to 11 (minimum -6 to -3°C)
- Origin
- South Africa
- Soil type
- Well-drained, poor to moderately fertile
Care
Light exposure
Arctotheca prefers a spot in full sun for optimal flowering. It will tolerate light partial shade but will flower less abundantly. Place it in an open location receiving at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Watering
Water moderately during the growing season and reduce significantly in winter. Let the soil dry out at the surface between waterings. In a Mediterranean or dry climate, the plant often thrives on natural rainfall once established.
Soil and drainage
Choose well-drained, light soil, even poor in nutrients—this is a South African plant accustomed to arid conditions. Absolutely avoid waterlogging and improve drainage by adding sand or gravel if your soil is too heavy.
Pruning and deadheading
Remove spent flowers regularly to extend the flowering period. In late winter or early spring, you can lightly cut back the clump to make the plant more compact and encourage branching.
Fertilizing
Fertilizer is seldom necessary on poor soil. In spring, apply a very dilute balanced fertilizer or add mature compost annually if the soil is very depleted. Avoid excess nitrogen, which would promote foliage at the expense of flowers.
Pests and diseases
Generally robust, Arctotheca can suffer from powdery mildew or rot if there is persistent humidity. Ensure good air circulation and maintain measured watering to prevent these issues.
Did you know?
Arctotheca calendula is a South African plant whose botanical name 'Arctotheca' literally means 'bear's box' in Greek, referring to the shape of its fruits. Surprisingly hardy and vigorous, it has naturalized in several Mediterranean regions where it brightens slopes and wastelands with its golden-yellow flowers from spring onward.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
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- YarrowAchillea millefolium
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- SneezewortAchillea ptarmica
- Canadian goldenrodSolidago canadensis
- WormwoodArtemisia absinthium
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.