Wedelia /पीला भृंगराज
Sphagneticola trilobata, commonly known as Singapore Daisy or Trailing Daisy or Wedelia (पीला भंगरा or पीला भृंगराज) is a fast-growing groundcover plant with bright yellow daisy-like flowers. While it’s loved for its lush appearance and low maintenance, it’s also considered invasive in many regions due to its aggressive spreading habit.
Basic Information
- Common Names: Singapore Daisy, Creeping Oxeye, Wedelia
- Botanical Name: Sphagneticola trilobata
- Type: Perennial groundcover
- Height: 15–30 cm (6–12 inches)
- Spread: Rapid and forms dense mats
- Flowers: Small, bright yellow daisies
- Leaves: Glossy, dark green with 3-lobed edges
Sunlight
- Grows well in full sun to partial shade.
- Best flowering occurs in full sun (6+ hours daily).
- Can tolerate some shade but may flower less.
Soil Requirements
- Adaptable to a wide range of soil types.
- Prefers moist, well-draining soil.
- Tolerates poor soil and mild salinity — great for coastal areas.
Watering
- Water regularly, especially when young.
- Once established, it’s drought tolerant.
- Avoid overwatering; soggy soil can cause root rot.
Pruning & Control
- Spreads aggressively — prune often to prevent overgrowth.
- Trim runners and edges monthly or more often in rainy season.
- Avoid planting near native vegetation (can choke out other plants).
- Not ideal for formal gardens unless well-contained.
Flowering Tips
- Flowers year-round in warm climates.
- Regular trimming of old flowers/runners can encourage more blooms.
- Does not need fertilization for flowering but benefits from:
- Compost or NPK 10:10:10 every few months for denser foliage.
Propagation
- Very easy to propagate via stem cuttings.
- Just place a healthy runner on soil — it will root quickly.
- Avoid discarding cuttings in open land — they may start growing invasively.
Pests & Diseases
May occasionally attract:
- Aphids
- Leafhoppers
- Neem oil or soap spray can be used if needed.
Invasiveness
- Highly invasive in tropical/subtropical climates.
- Banned in some areas due to environmental impact.
- Do not plant near natural forests, wetlands, or native plant zones.
- Best used in contained spaces like:
- Raised beds
- Pots or planters
- Isolated patches in urban gardens
Ideal Use Cases
- Erosion control (excellent on slopes and embankments)
- Groundcover in large, open urban spaces
- Around driveways, borders, or paths
- Under trees where grass won’t grow
Pros
- Low maintenance
- Bright, cheerful flowers
- Excellent ground cover
- Prevents soil erosion
Cons
- Invasive (may outcompete native species)
- Hard to remove once established
- Not suitable for ecological or native plant gardens
