Veldt Daisy
Common name
Veldt Daisy
Scientific Name
Osteospernum ecklonis
Type of plant
Daisies & Thistles (Family Asteraceae)
About this weed
This common mauve-white daisy is still grown extensively in Perth gardens as it is a hardy, drought tolerant plant. It came originally from South Africa probably as a garden plant but now has become a serious problem in bushland and other disturbed areas where it is often introduced in dumped garden rubbish.
Description
Veldt Daisies are spreading annuals that produce masses of white/pink/mauve flowers in winter and spring. There is also a purple colour form of this plant.
Impact on Bushland
If left they will spread over bushland and may impact on plant communities.
Location
Usually found around old settlements and urban areas where the daisy is still sold in nurseries as a drought tolerant plant. It is mostly seen around the Swan Coastal Plain although there are some records from as far away as near Norseman.
Priority for removal
Unknown: but if established can impact native plant communities.
Management (hand)
This woody perennial needs to be hand weeded ensuring that the whole plant including the roots is removed. Also, hand weed before seeds develop.
Management (herbicide)
Not available.
Flowering month/s
July, August, September, October
Flower colour/s
Pink, White, Mauve
Information source
https://florabase.dpaw.wa.gov.au/browse/profile/17756
Additional information
https://florabase.dpaw.wa.gov.au/weeds/swanweeds/
Hussey, B.M.J., Keighery, G.J., Dodd, J., Lloyd, S.G. and Cousens, R.D. (2007) Western weeds. A guide to the weeds of Western Australia, Second Edition, The Weeds Society of Western Australia, Victoria Park, Western Australia.
