When it's blooming, the Cape daisy, also known as Cape daisy, looks simply stunning. But the cape marigold also looks quite impressive and sometimes looks very similar to it. Which of the two is poisonous?
Is the Cape basket poisonous?
The Cape basket (Osteospermum) is non-toxic to humans and animals and is even edible. The similar-looking cape marigold (Dimorphotheca), on the other hand, contains toxic substances such as linamarin and lotaustralin, which can lead to nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
Poison potential is only found in cape marigold
The cape basket, which is popular as a balcony plant and sets beautiful accents with its colorful basket flowers, is completely harmless. This perennial is non-toxic to both humans and animals. Their flowers are even edible and can be used as a garnish.
In contrast to this is the cape marigold, which is also common:
- Often referred to as Cape baskets in the trade (incorrectly)
- toxic to humans and animals
- Toxins: Linamarin and Lotaustralin (cyanogenic glycosides)
- Consumption causes nausea, vomiting and diarrhea
Tip
If you are unsure whether you are buying the cape marigold or the cape marigold, read the botanical name. The cape marigold is called osteospermum and the cape marigold is called dimorphotheca.