Join us for a QuickQuest: Catch Cape Marigold, from March 17-31.
Find and map as many Cape marigolds (Dimorphotheca sinuata) as possible.
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.
Earliest voucher collected in metro Phoenix by Nelida Dumitrache in 2002.
Southeastern Arizona Wildflowers and Plants
https://www.fireflyforest.com/flowers/994/dimorphotheca-sinuata-glandular-cape-marigold/
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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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