Damianita Daisy

(Chrysactinia mexicana)

Damianita Daisy (Chrysactinia mexicana)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Chrysactinia mexicana, commonly known as Damianita Daisy, is an evergreen subshrub native to the semi-arid regions of Mexico, New Mexico, and Texas. It thrives in open plains, rocky hillsides, and along arroyos, where it forms part of the chaparral and scrub communities. This plant typically reaches up to 80 cm (32 inches) in height and is characterized by its dense, fine-textured foliage and branching habit, with each branch typically bearing a single flower head. The flower heads are showy with bright yellow ray flowers surrounding yellow or orange disc flowers, blooming profusely in the spring and sporadically throughout the growing season. The achenes, which are similar to those of the common dandelion, are wind-dispersed.

Damianita Daisy is valued for its bright, cheerful flowers and aromatic foliage, which release a pleasant fragrance when crushed. It is drought-tolerant and requires minimal maintenance, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping, rock gardens, and border plantings in regions with similar climates to its native habitat. It is also used for its essential oils in aromatherapy. For successful cultivation, Damianita Daisy should be planted in well-drained soils and provided with full sun exposure. While it is generally pest-free, overwatering can lead to root rot, and it may not tolerate humid climates well.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Subshrub, Shrub
  • Height: 1-2 feet
  • Width: 1-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low
  • Drainage: Fast

Common Uses

Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Fragrant, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Semi-arid regions, open plains, rocky hillsides, and along arroyos within chaparral and scrub communities

Other Names

Common Names: Damianita

Scientific Names: , Chrysactinia mexicana, Pectis taxifolia,

GBIF Accepted Name: Chrysactinia mexicana A.Gray