QuickQuest: Catch Cape Marigold!
Join us for a QuickQuest: Catch Cape Marigold, from March 17-31.
Find and map as many Cape marigolds (Dimorphotheca sinuata) as possible.
WHAT TO OBSERVE:
Scientific name: Dimorphotheca sinuata
Common name: Cape marigold, African daisy
See it on SEINet
See it on iNaturalist
Native to South Africa, Cape marigolds (Dimorphotheca sinuata) have been making an appearance in metro Phoenix since the early 1960s. Also known as African daisy, this annual flowering plant is often mistaken for a native wildflower. Their seeds are included in some wildflower seed mixes and this is likely how they were introduced to our area. They have escaped cultivation and have become naturalized (growing a sustainable population on its own) in some areas. They can be found far out in wilderness, as well as nearby urban areas. Cape marigold is now regarded as an emerging invasive species in California and Australia. The term "invasive" is used for aggressive species that grow and reproduce rapidly, displace native species, and can alter ecosystems. In recent years, iNaturalist observations of this plant have been increasing in metro Phoenix, growing from 1 observation in 2016, to 62 observations in 2020. In 2021, there were 28 observations, likely due to the extreme drought. The increase in observations could be attributed to more people using iNaturalist or simply because more people are noticing and recognizing these colorful flowers. We need your help to learn more!
Image of abundant Cape marigolds in Apache Junction.
By observing and mapping Cape marigolds, we can learn more about their population growth and spread. Are they competing with native wildflowers and do they have invasive potential in our area? You can help us find out! Observations of large groupings of this plant are especially helpful.
Earliest voucher collected in metro Phoenix by Nelida Dumitrache in 2002.
Sources:
Invasive Species Compendium: https://www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/53141342
Southeastern Arizona Wildflowers and Plants
https://www.fireflyforest.com/flowers/994/dimorphotheca-sinuata-glandular-cape-marigold/
QuickQuests are short challenges that are part of the larger Metro Phoenix EcoFlora project. Learn more by visiting our website.
Look for project happenings, EcoQuest announcements and more in the newsletter, project journal and on social media.
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Please do not observe indoor houseplants or pets.
For your own safety and the protection of plants and wildlife, do not trespass when making observations. Please follow all posted rules and guidelines in parks/preserves and do not enter private property.
Do not remove or move natural materials (plants, animals, rocks).
Respect wildlife (do not touch, feed, or disturb animals and keep a safe distance).
Please Observe COVID-19 Guidelines/Recommendations.
The EcoFlora is a great opportunity to observe and appreciate nature in our neighborhoods as we all navigate the complications of COVID-19. Please follow COVID-19 guidelines/recommendations and do what's best for you and your community.
For more COVID-19 information and guidelines, visit:
Arizona Office of Tourism: Responsible Recreation in AZ
https://tourism.az.gov/responsible-recreation-across-arizona
ADHS
https://www.azdhs.gov/covid19/data/index.php
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