False daisy
Eclipta prostrata · Asteraceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant false daisy: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous, semi-evergreen depending on climate
- Blooming
- June to September
- Adult size
- 20 to 60 cm in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Annual or perennial in warm climates (freezes below 5°C)
- Origin
- Tropical and subtropical regions (Asia, South America)
- Soil type
- Fresh, well-drained, slightly moist soils
Care
Regular watering
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water 2 to 3 times per week during active growing season. Reduce watering in autumn and winter. Eclipta appreciates a humid environment, especially in dry climates.
Light and warmth
Place the plant in full sun or partial shade. It develops best with 4 to 6 hours of direct daily light. Protect it from frost and cold drafts.
Substrate preparation
Use a light mixture based on potting soil, enriched with compost or organic matter. Ensure good drainage to prevent root asphyxia. A neutral to slightly acidic pH is ideal.
Moderate fertilization
Apply balanced diluted fertilizer every 15 days during the growing season. Overfeeding is not recommended and can reduce flowering. Stop applications in autumn-winter.
Pinching and light pruning
Pinch young shoots at the 4 to 5 leaf stage to encourage branching. Remove faded flowers to extend blooming. Light maintenance pruning is generally sufficient.
Phytosanitary vigilance
Watch for powdery mildew in stagnant humid air and spider mites in case of dryness. Regularly air the area and avoid excessive leaf moisture. Treat promptly using gentle methods if needed.
Did you know?
White eclipta has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for millennia, where it is recognized for its revitalizing properties. Its delicate small white flowers contrast with its remarkable robustness, capable of rapidly colonizing disturbed and humid areas, making it a pioneer species in many tropical ecosystems.
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.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.