Mexican Tree Daisy
montanoa hibiscifolia
Also known as: ["Tree Daisy","Mexican Daisy Tree"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub or small tree native to Mexico, known for its large, daisy-like flowers that bloom in late autumn and winter.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","fragrant flowers"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Montanoa |
| Botanical Name: | Montanoa hibiscifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sheltered spot or large container
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity drops below 40%
- Drainage: Fast-draining
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter strong light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 2–3 weeks in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; adjust based on season and growth stage.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0)
Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with sand or perlite.
Temperature
Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid prolonged exposure to extremes.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand
Hormone
Recommended for faster rooting
Timeline
Roots in 3–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective cutting of stems to shape the plant; remove crossing or weak growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead/damaged stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; make clean cuts; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; avoid wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, wilting, or bud drop in response to sudden temperature changes.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop, and increases susceptibility to root rot.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; ensure soil is not overly wet.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth stage; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Montanoa hibiscifolia. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Montanoa hibiscifolia can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can cause discomfort if consumed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicMontanoa hibiscifolia contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can be problematic if ingested in large quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When does Montanoa hibiscifolia bloom?
A: It blooms in late autumn and winter, producing large daisy-like flowers.
Q: Is Montanoa hibiscifolia toxic to pets?
A: There is no confirmed information on its toxicity to pets; it is best to keep it out of reach as a precaution.
Q: How much sunlight does Montanoa hibiscifolia need?
A: It thrives in full sun to partial shade, requiring at least 6 hours of sunlight daily for optimal flowering.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
