Wedelia

Afrikaans name: Singapoer-madeliefie

Wedelia

Photo © Steven Herbert

Sphagneticola trilobata / Wedelia trilobata

The Wedelia is native to Central America but, because of it being a popular garden plant, it has spread into many areas of South Africa and other countries. In fact, it is so invasive that it is listed as one of the 100 most invasive plants in the world by the IUCN.

The flower goes under a number of different names including Singapore Daisy, Creeping Oxeye, Trailing Daisy, and Bay Biscayne Creeping Oxeye.

The Wedelia is a member of the sunflower family, so it is no surprise that its flowers are yellow. The flowers measure around 25 mm across and appear between spring and autumn in South Africa. The dark green leaves are hairy and fleshy. The edges of the leaves have some serrations.

Although it tolerates various conditions it prefers sunny spotsin well-drained soil at low altitudes. Apart from in gardens it can be found in pastures, along roadsides and in other disturbed areas. It spreads quickly, not by means of seed, but rather through offshoots of the plant which in turn become independent plants.

Above - Wedelia

Photo © Steven Herbert

References and further reading

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