Dimorphotheca

Dimorphotheca sinuata

Dimorphotheca is a genus of flowering plants belonging to the family Asteraceae. The genus is native to southern Africa and is known for its daisy-like flowers. The name Dimorphotheca is derived from the Greek words "dimorphos" (two forms) and "theka" (a case), referring to the two different types of seeds produced by the plants in this genus.

Description

Plants in the genus Dimorphotheca are annuals or perennials with a bushy growth habit. They typically have lance-shaped leaves and produce solitary, daisy-like flower heads. The flowers come in a variety of colors, including white, yellow, orange, and purple. The central disc florets are usually darker than the surrounding ray florets.

Species

Some notable species within the genus Dimorphotheca include:

• Dimorphotheca pluvialis – Cape marigold
• Dimorphotheca sinuata – African daisy
• Dimorphotheca ecklonis – Cape daisy

Cultivation

Dimorphotheca species are popular in horticulture for their bright and showy flowers. They are often used in garden beds, borders, and as ground cover. These plants prefer well-drained soil and full sun exposure. They are relatively drought-tolerant once established and can thrive in poor soil conditions.

Related Genera

Dimorphotheca is closely related to the genus Osteospermum, which is also known for its daisy-like flowers. The two genera are sometimes confused, but Osteospermum species are generally more robust and have a wider range of flower colors.

Related Pages

• Asteraceae
• Osteospermum
• Annual plant
• Perennial plant
• Horticulture