African Daisy, Stinking Mayweed
pallenis spinosa
Also known as: ["Stinking Mayweed","Yellow Daisy"]
Overview
A small, annual or short-lived perennial herb with yellow daisy-like flowers and pungent foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Pallenis |
| Botanical Name: | Pallenis spinosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, xeriscapes, or sunny borders
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but blooms best in direct light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday heat in summer; ideal for outdoor placement in sunny spots.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun is best; avoid deep shade; rotate regularly for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; prioritize drought tolerance.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 7.0–7.5).
Ensure fast drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter if needed.
Temperature
Prefers warm to hot conditions (65–85°F/18–29°C); hardy to light frost but thrives in heat.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air flow in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in winter
Fertilize lightly; avoid over-fertilization; stop in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F/21–24°C), high humidity, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix like cactus soil or perlite and peat moss.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; mature plant in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushiness; remove dead or damaged growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot only when root-bound or soil is depleted; typically every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil; check root health; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water is removed; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to once every 3–4 weeks.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting in extreme heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Growth slows; leaves may turn yellow or brown; susceptible to root rot in cold, wet soil.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from frost; ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch or wilt; flowering may decline in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; water deeply but infrequently; improve air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply monthly during growing season (spring–summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms if they consume Pallenis spinosa. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause mild irritation or discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Pallenis spinosa may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can cause discomfort in pets.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicPallenis spinosa contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can lead to discomfort in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Pallenis spinosa toxic to pets?
A: No, Pallenis spinosa is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How easy is it to grow Pallenis spinosa?
A: It is very easy to grow, requiring minimal care and thriving in tough conditions.
Q: Does Pallenis spinosa attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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