The Sphagneticola trilobata, formerly Wedelia trilobata and usually called the Trailing Daisy, is a fleshy-leaved mat-former of 0.15 to 0.3 metres that roots at every node and carries small bright yellow daisy flowers almost continuously in warm climates.
It closes bare ground faster than any other groundcover in the tropical palette, which is both its value and the reason it needs firm boundaries.
Specifications
Height0.15 to 0.3 metres
Width0.6 to 1 metre per plant, then spreading indefinitely
Native toMexico, Central America and the Caribbean
FoliageFleshy three-lobed glossy green leaves on rooting runners; evergreen
Growth rateFast
Conditions
SoilAdapts to almost any soil, including poor, sandy and periodically wet ground
LightFull sun to partial shade
WaterLow to moderate; drought-tolerant once established
ClimateThrives in tropical, subtropical and coastal regions and in warm arid climates with irrigation
Additional Features
FlowersSmall bright yellow daisy flowers, near-continuous in warm climates
UsesIdeal for rapid groundcover on banks and verges, erosion control and planter spillover
SpacingPlant 0.3 to 0.5 metres apart for cover within a season
Low MaintenanceShear to contain it; runners root at every node and will cross an edge
Pest ResistanceGenerally pest-free and resilient
Drought ToleranceHolds cover through dry periods once established
Erosion ControlDense rooting mat binds loose soil on slopes and batters
Salt ToleranceTolerates coastal exposure and salt-laden wind
The Trailing Daisy is the fastest route to closed green cover on a raw slope, used with a hard edge and a containment plan.
Availability by project review. Sizes, quantities, origin and export readiness are confirmed after your plant schedule is reviewed against destination, timing and quarantine requirements. MEWA certified for supply into Saudi Arabia; Australian Export Registered Establishment.
Enquiries: sales@ornatecinternational.com310 Donkin Rd, Utchee Creek QLD 4871, AustraliaPrepared 08 September 2026