Also known as Common Quickweed · French-Weed · Fringed Quickweed
Shaggy soldier (Galinsoga quadriradiata) is a fast-growing annual herb with small, daisy-like flowers, often considered a weed but can self-seed readily in gardens.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least six hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth and flowering.
Moderate to High
75% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist, allowing top layer to dry slightly between waterings.
Well-drained, fertile soil
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in average room temperatures, between 18-24°C. Protect from frost.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, especially during dry spells, to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top centimeter of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering in cooler months when growth slows.
Consistent moisture promotes lush foliage and abundant flowering.
Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming and prevent self-seeding if desired. Light pruning can help maintain a tidier shape and remove any leggy growth.
Pinching back young plants can promote bushier development.
Galinsoga quadriradiata is easily propagated by seeds sown directly in the garden after the last frost. It readily self-seeds, often naturalizing in suitable conditions.
Cuttings can also be taken from established plants and rooted in moist soil.
Repotting is generally not necessary as Galinsoga quadriradiata is an annual that often self-seeds. If grown in containers and desired for overwintering or to prevent widespread seeding, repot in fresh, well-draining potting mix in the spring.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Shaggy Soldier (Galinsoga quadriradiata)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Galinsoga |
| Species | Galinsoga quadriradiata |
Similar in genus Galinsoga
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
