Capeweed

Many small flowers (florets) in solitary heads, 2–6 cm across at the end of stalks 8–25 cm long. Flowers mostly spring and early summer.

Annual rosette-forming herb with taproot; individual plants to 80 cm wide and 30 cm high. Leaves with upper surface hairless to hairy; basal leaves 5–25 cm long, 2–6 cm wide, on a stalk to 6 cm long; upper leaves, if present, stem-clasping.

Distinguished by deeply lobed basal leaves, white downy underneath; area where seeds attach to the head (receptacle) pitted; petal-like ray florets yellow above, grey-green below with strap-like parts mostly 1.5–2.5 cm long, disc florets dark purple; seeds covered in pale brown wool and topped by 6–8 short scales.

Morphology:

• Growth Form: Cape Weed is a prostrate, mat-forming herb with a ground-hugging habit.
• Leaves: The leaves are lobed and somewhat succulent, forming rosettes close to the ground.
• Flowers: The flowers resemble those of a typical dandelion, with bright yellow petals radiating from a central disk. Each flower head is borne on a single, sturdy stem.

2. Reproduction:

• Seeds: Cape Weed reproduces primarily by seeds, which are dispersed by wind, water, or human activities. The seeds are equipped with a fluffy pappus, allowing them to be carried over long distances by the wind.
• Rapid Spread: One of the challenges associated with Cape Weed is its ability to spread quickly and form dense colonies, outcompeting native vegetation.

3. Invasive Characteristics:

• Aggressive Colonizer: Cape Weed is known for its aggressive colonization of disturbed areas, such as pastures, roadsides, and open fields.
• Weed Competitor: Its rapid growth and ability to adapt to various soil conditions make it a problematic weed in agricultural and natural ecosystems.
• Tolerance to Poor Soil: Cape Weed can thrive in nutrient-poor soils, further contributing to its invasive nature.

4. Impact on Ecosystems:

• Competition with Natives: The invasive nature of Cape Weed can lead to the displacement of native plant species, affecting biodiversity in affected areas.
• Livestock Concerns: In agricultural settings, Cape Weed can reduce the productivity of pastures, as it competes with desirable forage plants. Additionally, some livestock may avoid grazing in areas infested with Cape Weed.

5. Control and Management:

• Chemical Control: Herbicides are often used to manage Cape Weed in agricultural and non-crop settings.
• Mechanical Methods: Physical methods such as mowing or hand pulling can be employed, but these may need to be repeated due to the plant's ability to regenerate from the base.
• Prevention: Preventing the spread of Cape Weed involves minimizing disturbances in natural areas and implementing good agricultural practices to limit its establishment.