Asteraceae
Galinsoga parviflora
Gallant soldier · Msekeseke
H
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
This annual herb grows to between 20 and 75 cm tall, featuring erect, branched stems. Its opposite leaves are lanceolate to ovate, pale green, and petiolate, often with fine, eyelash-like hairs along their margins. Small flower heads display yellow central disc florets encircled by typically five small white ray florets, each distinctly three-lobed. The leaves and young shoots are edible, frequently used in soups, stews, or as a potherb, and the plant has traditional medicinal applications for treating nettle stings and minor wounds.
Where it works in Kilifi
As a vigorously growing annual, this herb thrives in the Kilifi coast's full sun to partial shade conditions and a variety of well-drained, moist, nutrient-rich soils. It is best suited for managed kitchen gardens or designated herb plots where its prolific growth can be contained, or in disturbed areas where a quick-establishing groundcover is desired.
Growing notes
This annual herb exhibits rapid growth and prolific seeding, capable of completing its life cycle in as little as 50 days. It prefers regular watering, allowing the soil to dry out almost completely between waterings once established. Be aware that it is a vigorous self-seeder and can quickly colonise disturbed ground, and it is considered poisonous to goats.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: nih.gov, theferns.info, wikipedia.org, iewf.org, bayer.co.nz, juliasedibleweeds.com. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.