Crown Marigold

glebionis coronaria

Also known as: ["Chrysanthemum coronarium","Garland Chrysanthemum"]

Family: Asteraceae Genus: Glebionis Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

An annual herbaceous plant with daisy-like yellow or white flowers and edible leaves, often used in culinary and traditional medicine.

Benefits & Perks

["edible fruits","culinary herb","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Asterales
Family: Asteraceae
Genus: Glebionis
Botanical Name: Glebionis coronaria

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: garden bed or container in full sun
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Busy People (low Maintenance) Culinary Herb Fragrance Lovers
  • 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 waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed throughout the growing season; deadhead regularly.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on removing dead or overgrown parts.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but blooms best in direct light.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun in hot climates; ensure adequate airflow to prevent heat stress.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or overwatering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

easy

Sunlight

full sun

Rotate plants for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid placing in drafty areas.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.

Soil

well-drained, moderately fertile soil

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).

Use raised beds for better drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with compost annually.

Temperature

Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); can tolerate cooler temperatures but may struggle above 85°F (29°C).

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in heat.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season

Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing when blooms fade; use organic options for gentle feeding.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division; seeds can also be used for propagation.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and warm.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water.

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; plants establish in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity with a plastic bag.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut stems just above a leaf node.

Pruning Plan

Remove spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering; trim leggy growth to maintain shape.

Tools

Pruning shears, gloves, clean cutting tools.

Checklist

Sanitize tools; remove dead/damaged parts; shape as needed; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.

Suggestions

Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wet foliage.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, focusing on the root zone; water until it drains from the bottom; avoid overhead watering to reduce disease risk.

Pro Tip: Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to frost damage in freezing conditions.

Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; move potted plants indoors; use row covers for garden plants.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, growth may slow, and flowering can be reduced in excessive heat.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade, increase watering, and use mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check fertilizer type; dilute properly; apply to soil, not foliage; follow seasonal schedule.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Glebionis coronaria may indicate nutrient deficiencies, such as nitrogen or iron, or could be a sign of water stress, pest infestation, or disease.

Wilting in Glebionis coronaria is often due to water stress, either from drought or overwatering, which can impair nutrient uptake and lead to plant decline if not addressed.

Leaf spots on Glebionis coronaria are typically caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in unsightly lesions, reduced photosynthetic efficiency, and potential defoliation.

Rotting in Glebionis coronaria, particularly root or stem rot, is commonly caused by fungal pathogens in waterlogged soils, leading to decay, loss of structural integrity, and plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats are also susceptible to liver damage from pyrrolizidine alkaloids found in Glebionis coronaria if consumed in large quantities. The plant is generally safe in small amounts but should be monitored for excessive ingestion.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting loss of appetite lethargy liver failure
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems flowers
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten in large quantities

Prevent cats from eating large amounts of the plant; seek veterinary care if ingestion is observed.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

Similar to humans, dogs may experience liver toxicity if they consume large amounts of Glebionis coronaria due to the presence of pyrrolizidine alkaloids. The plant is not typically harmful in small amounts.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy liver dysfunction
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems flowers
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten in large quantities

Keep pets from ingesting large quantities of the plant; consult a veterinarian if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Glebionis coronaria contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can cause liver damage if consumed in significant amounts over time. The plant is generally considered safe in small quantities but poses a risk when ingested excessively.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting abdominal pain liver damage
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems flowers
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten in large quantities

Consume only in moderation; avoid prolonged or excessive ingestion to prevent potential liver toxicity.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Glebionis coronaria edible?

A: Yes, its leaves and flowers are edible and commonly used in culinary dishes.

Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.

Q: Is it toxic to pets?

A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.

Quick Reference
Family: Asteraceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["beginners","busy people (low maintenance)","culinary herb","fragrance lovers"]
Get Expert Care Tips

Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant

Related Plants

Rough Groundsel
View
Mexican tarragon, Spanish tarragon, Mexican marigold
View
Fireweed
View
Silver Ragwort
View