Straggler Daisy
calyptocarpus vialis
Also known as: ["Straggler Daisy","Walking Daisy","Narrowleaf Straggler Daisy"]
Overview
A low-growing, spreading herbaceous plant with small yellow flowers and narrow leaves, often found in lawns and disturbed areas.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Calyptocarpus |
| Botanical Name: | Calyptocarpus vialis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: ground cover in garden beds or containers
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
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, focusing on shaping and removing weak growth.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade but may stretch in low light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light to prevent scorching; place in a spot with filtered sunlight if outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; avoid direct midday sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in low light.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil doesn't compact; replace if it becomes waterlogged or depleted.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); thrives in warm, stable conditions with slight cooling in winter.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent warmth year-round.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or moist soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, place in medium, keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix or water with occasional nutrient additions.
Hormone
Optional, but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may take 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots or jars.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture for faster rooting.
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 bushier growth; remove dead or leggy stems.
Tools
Clean pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, prune selectively, remove debris, monitor regrowth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant, trim roots if needed, place in fresh soil with good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Check root health, use fresh soil, ensure proper drainage, water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, ensuring even moisture without saturating the leaves; allow excess water to drain completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or orchid bark to improve drainage and aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts below 50°F (10°C); prolonged cold can cause leaf drop or death.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts and cold windows.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch or wilt in excessive heat; growth may become stressed.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity and water more frequently.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, use diluted fertilizer, avoid winter feeding, flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCalyptocarpus vialis is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant does not pose a risk of poisoning if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicCalyptocarpus vialis is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant does not pose a risk of poisoning if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicCalyptocarpus vialis is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. The plant is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Calyptocarpus vialis invasive?
A: Yes, it can be considered invasive in lawns and garden beds due to its spreading habit.
Q: Does it require much care?
A: No, it is very low maintenance and thrives with minimal attention.
Q: Does it attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies with its small yellow flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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