Bur-daisy (Calotis cuneifolia, Bot. Reg. 6: t. 504 (1820))

Family: Asteraceae

Author: R.Br.

Bibliography: Bot. Reg. 6: t. 504 (1820)

Year: 1820

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Calotis

Vegetable: False

Observations: Australia

Description

The Bur-daisy, known scientifically as Calotis cuneifolia, is an intriguing plant species native to Australia. First documented in 1820 in the Botanical Register, this species belongs to the extensive Asteraceae family, which includes a diverse array of flowering plants.

Calotis cuneifolia is characterized by its distinctive daisy-like flowers, which typically exhibit a vibrant mix of yellow hues in their capitulum. The petals are surrounded by spiny structures that give the plant its common name “Bur-daisy,” referring to the bur-like appearance that can adhere to clothing and fur, aiding in seed dispersal. The leaves of this species have a wedge-shaped (cuneate) form, adding to its unique botanical features.

This resilient plant has adapted well to the varying climates of its native Australia, thriving in different terrains ranging from coastal areas to rocky inland zones. The Bur-daisy’s ability to withstand harsh environmental conditions makes it an interesting subject of study for botanists and horticulturists alike.

As a member of the Asteraceae family, which is known for its economic and ecological significance, Calotis cuneifolia plays a role in local ecosystems by providing nectar for a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies. Its presence also indicates healthy soil, as it often grows in regions that are undisturbed and well-balanced.

The study and documentation of the Bur-daisy contribute valuable insights into the rich biodiversity of Australian flora. It stands as a testament to the intricate beauty and complexity of plant species within the Asteraceae family.

Common Names

Eng: bur-daisy, wedgeleaf, blue bur daisy, bur daisy, purple bur daisy
Deu: keilblättriges schönohr
Cym: llygad-y-dydd cynghafog
En: Bur-daisy, Wedgeleaf, Blue bur daisy, Bur daisy, Purple bur daisy
De: Keilblättriges Schönohr
Cy: Llygad-y-Dydd Cynghafog

Synonyms

• Calotis dilatata (A.Cunn. ex DC.)
• Calotis cuneifolia var. biaristata (Domin)
• Calotis cuneifolia var. glabrescens (C.T.White)
• Calotis palmata (A.Gray)

Distribution

• New South Wales (native)
• Northern Territory (native)
• Queensland (native)
• South Australia (native)
• Victoria (native)
• Western Australia (native)
• Great Britain (introduced)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Jul 21, 2022 by Michal Svit (cc-by-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3098186)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:188086-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Calotis cuneifolia R.Br.)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Forb/herb

Growth