Coatbuttons / Tridax Daisy
Tridax procumbens
Tridax procumbens is a trailing, perennial herb characterized by its daisylike yellow-centered flowers with white or cream-colored rays and fuzzy, tooth-edged leaves.
- Light
- Full sun, at least 6 to 8 hours per day
- Water
- Low; drought-tolerant once established. Water only when the soil is completely dry.
- Growth
- Perennial trailing herb; typically grows 20-50 cm tall with a spreading width of up to 1 meter. Semi-prostrate growth habit.
Care instructions
This plant thrives in full sun and requires very little maintenance. It prefers well-drained soil and will grow in poor conditions with minimal water. It generally does not require fertilization and should be monitored to prevent spreading too aggressively.
Growing details
Sunlight
Full sun, at least 6 to 8 hours per day
Watering
Low; drought-tolerant once established. Water only when the soil is completely dry.
Soil
Well-draining sandy or loamy soils; tolerates various pH levels but prefers neutral to slightly acidic.
Hardiness zone
9-12 (USDA); it is sensitive to frost
Growth habit
Perennial trailing herb; typically grows 20-50 cm tall with a spreading width of up to 1 meter. Semi-prostrate growth habit.
Bloom season
Year-round in tropical climates; flowers are small, disk-shaped, with three-toothed ray florets.
Propagation
Easily propagated through wind-dispersed seeds or by stem cuttings that readily root at the nodes.
Common pests & issues
Highly opportunistic and can become an invasive weed in gardens and agricultural fields. It is generally resistant to most pests but may occasionally host aphids.
Similar species
Galinsoga parviflora (Gallant Soldier) looks similar but has smaller flowers and different leaf venation.