Bullhead
cotula coronopifolia
Also known as: ["Bullhead","Golden Buttons"]
Overview
A small, herbaceous annual or biennial plant with yellow flower heads and finely divided leaves, native to southern Africa.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Cotula |
| Botanical Name: | Cotula coronopifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, borders, or containers in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–11"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed throughout the growing season; lightly prune after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) with tolerance to partial shade in hot climates. Adjust exposure based on seasonal light intensity.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun in summer; ensure adequate light indoors with supplemental grow lights if needed.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F / 15–24°C). Tolerates mild frosts but thrives in cooler conditions.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season
Fertilize sparingly to prevent leggy growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; apply after watering.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant once rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; establish in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or shear lightly for shape; deadhead flowers regularly.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape.
Tools
Clean pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the container. Beneficial for rejuvenation.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage. Allow excess water to drain freely to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; move potted plants indoors; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced flowering in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest Cotula coronopifolia may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause discomfort if consumed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Cotula coronopifolia by dogs may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can cause discomfort if consumed in large amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCotula coronopifolia contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can lead to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Cotula coronopifolia invasive?
A: Yes, it can be invasive in some regions, particularly in wetlands and disturbed areas.
Q: Does Cotula coronopifolia require much water?
A: No, it is highly drought-tolerant and thrives in dry conditions.
Q: Does Cotula coronopifolia attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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