Cape Dandelion is widespread and occurs in coastal areas or on disturbed
soil the Western and Eastern Cape extending into Natal. There are
about five species of Arctotheca in Southern Africa. In the
Cape it is well known by its common name, the Cape weed.
The name Actotheca is derived from Greek word arktos
meaning a bear, theke means a capsule or a case. The
species name 'calendula' comes from a Greek word 'calendae' meaning
the first day of the month.
This species is an annual herb or sprawling perennial growing up
to 25cm high. The basal leaves form a rosette and are woolly above.
They have deeply divided margins. The daisy-type flowers, up to
6cm, across are a striking yellow and are mostly pollinated by butterflies.
Growing Arctotheca calendula
It is a good ground cover, able to grow in any garden soil, although
it is advisable to add plenty of compost. The Cape Dandelion grows
best in full sun and requires a moderate amount of water. It is
hardy to moderate frost. This plant spreads by means of runners.
It is easily propagated by lifting rooted runners and planting them
in planting bags or directly into the flower bed. It can also be
propagated from seed.
This plant is a versatile ground cover that can be used in a garden
for holding soil and for a colourful display.
- Goldblatt, P. & Manning, J (2000) Cape Plants. Strelizia
9. National Botanical Institute : Cape Town.
- Joffe, P. (1993) The Gardener's Guide to South African Plants.
Tafelberg : Cape Town.
- Le Roux, A. &.Schelpe, T. (1998) Namaqualand - South African
Wild Flowers Guide. Botanical Society of South Africa : Cape Town.
Moeketsi S. Letsela & Sharon Turner
Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden