Table of Contents
Introduction
African daisies (Osteospermum spp.) bear a striking resemblance to the familiar common daisy, showcasing petals arranged around a central disk, sharing membership in the Asteraceae family alongside Shasta daisies and zinnias. Yet, their vibrant hues distinguish them from the traditional daisy palette. Initially, upon introduction to the market, their vivid coloring prompted speculation of dyeing. Remarkably, the center disks often mimic the luster of metallic paint. Petals may adopt the familiar smooth, flat form or extend in a tubular spoon shape. Leaf characteristics vary by variety, spanning lance-like to broadly ovate, and may feature smooth, toothed, or lobed edges.
Plant these flowers in spring post-frost for optimal growth, as they swiftly bloom approximately two months after germination from seeds. While resilient in zones 10 to 11, they’re typically treated as annuals in other climates. Despite the genus boasting over 70 species, most African daisies available commercially are cultivars and hybrids originating from O. ecklonis, O. jucundum, and select other species.
Characteristics
Common Name and Botanical Aspects
- Common Name: African daisy, cape daisy, osteospermum
- Botanical Name: Osteospermum spp.
- Family: Asteraceae
- Plant Type: Perennial, annual
- Mature Size: 1–3 ft. tall, 1–2 ft. wide
- Sun Exposure: Full
- Soil Type: Moist, well-drained
- Soil pH: Acidic
- Bloom Time: Spring, summer, fall
- Flower Color: Purple, pink, yellow, orange, white
- Hardiness Zones: 10–11 (USDA)
- Native Area: Africa, Asia
African Daisy Care
African daisies thrive whether planted in the ground or in containers. Their blooms reach their zenith from late spring to early summer and then again from late summer to early fall. To ensure continuous visual appeal, consider pairing them with other plants that flourish in the heat of summer, as African daisies tend to pause blooming during hot spells. Being perennials, they reliably return each year within their hardiness zones. In colder regions, before the onset of the first frost, propagate new plants indoors by taking cuttings.
These flowers demand little maintenance when provided with their preferred environment. Ample sunlight and well-drained soil are essential. Regular watering and fertilization throughout the growing season (spring to fall) are advisable. Additionally, removing spent blooms, known as deadheading, encourages reblooming.
Light
African daisies thrive in full sun, although they can tolerate partial shade, albeit with reduced flower production. Typically, their blooms open in response to sunlight and close during nighttime and overcast conditions. Notably, certain recent cultivars such as ‘4D Pink’, ‘4D Silver’, and ‘4D Berry’ maintain their blooms open even at night.
Soil
African daisies thrive in soil that is organically rich, well-draining, and slightly acidic. Enhance soil quality by incorporating compost or other organic amendments during planting to bolster drainage and nutrient content. Ensure adequate spacing, planting them at least 12 inches apart to accommodate their potential spread; certain varieties can extend up to approximately 12 inches wide.
Water
While African daisies display some tolerance to drought once they’ve taken root, they still require a minimum of 1 inch of water weekly to thrive. In times of drought or high temperatures, their growth may decelerate, and they might enter a dormant phase. Strive to maintain consistently moist soil, avoiding both underwatering, which can impede growth, and overwatering, which may foster diseases like root rot.
Temperature and Humidity
African daisies thrive in moderate weather conditions, exhibiting their most abundant blooms during these periods. They can endure nighttime temperatures as low as approximately 40 degrees Fahrenheit, but frost poses a significant risk, potentially causing damage or even death. Generally, humidity poses minimal concern for them, provided they receive sufficient air circulation, along with appropriate watering and soil drainage.
Fertilizer
To flourish and produce their finest blooms, these flowers require ample nutrients. In addition to incorporating compost into the soil, administer a balanced fertilizer formulated for flowering plants on a monthly basis throughout the growing season. Potted plants may necessitate even more frequent feeding to sustain optimal growth.
Varieties of African Daisy
Numerous African daisy species and varieties exist, some of which include:
- Osteospermum ‘Passion Mix’: A compact plant standing around a foot tall, offering a range of colors (pink, purple, rose, and white) with blue centers. Renowned for its heat tolerance, it’s easily grown from seed.
- Osteospermum ‘4D’: Recognized for its fluffy, tufted centers, these flowers remain open all day, even in hot weather, reaching heights of up to 14 inches.
- Osteospermum ‘FlowerPower Spider White’: Featuring peculiar, spoon-shaped petals in white and lavender hues with a gold center. This variety grows approximately 14 inches tall.
- Osteospermum ‘Lemon Symphony’: Boasting butter-yellow petals with a purple center and orange eye, this variety grows to about 14 inches tall.
- Osteospermum ‘Pink Sugar’: Exhibiting pink and orange petals converging into a gold center, standing around 10 inches tall.
- Osteospermum ‘Ravers Hearts and Tarts’: Sporting orange and pink flowers, this variety reaches heights of approximately 12 inches.
- Osteospermum ‘Sideshow Copper Apricot’: Characterized by striking pale apricot flowers with a purple center disk, it grows up to 12 inches tall.
- Osteospermum ‘Soprano White’: Featuring white blooms with a blue center encircled by purple and yellow, it reaches heights of up to 14 inches.
Propagating African Daisies
Prepare the Growing Medium
- Fill a shallow tray with sterile seed-starting mixture, slightly dampening the mix.
Take Cuttings
- Using sharp bypass pruners, select plant cuttings that are 2 to 3 inches long and possess at least two sets of leaf nodes.
- Remove any flower buds present and strip off the lower leaves.
Apply Rooting Hormone
- Dip the cut end of each cutting into rooting hormone to encourage root development.
Plant the Cuttings
- Insert the cut end of each cutting into the seed-starting mix, ensuring it is secure.
Provide Suitable Conditions
- Cover the tray with a plastic dome to create a humid environment.
- Place the tray in a location with bright indirect light and maintain temperatures between 60 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit.
Monitor and Wait
- Check the cuttings regularly for signs of rooting, typically occurring within four to six weeks.
Transplant
- Once the cuttings have developed sufficient roots, transplant them into individual containers filled with potting mix or directly into an outdoor garden location.
How to Grow African Daisy From Seeds
Selecting Seeds
- If available, obtain seeds for pure species varieties of African daisy, such as Osteospermum ecklonis, as hybrids are typically not readily available as seeds.
Sowing Seeds Indoors
- Begin the process about eight to 10 weeks before the last winter/spring frost.
- Sow the seeds directly onto the surface of a pot filled with ordinary potting mix.
- Lightly cover the seeds as they require light for germination.
- Maintain moisture around the seeds until germination occurs.
Growing Seedlings
- Provide bright indirect light for the seedlings until they are ready for outdoor planting.
- If starting indoors, ensure the seedlings are hardened off for two full weeks before transplanting them outdoors.
Transplanting Seedlings
- Upon outdoor planting, pinch back the seedlings immediately to stimulate bushier growth and encourage healthier plants.
Common Pests & Plant Diseases
African daisies are generally resilient against pests and diseases when grown in optimal conditions. However, in humid environments, vigilance against fungal issues is crucial, as evidenced by damaged or discolored foliage. Improving air circulation around the plants can mitigate fungal diseases, while the use of fungicides may be necessary in severe cases.
Common plant pests such as whiteflies and aphids may pose a threat, particularly to stressed plants. Fortunately, early detection allows for effective control using insecticidal soap or chemical sprays.
How to Get African Daisies to Bloom
Regular Deadheading
- While African daisies typically bloom without much encouragement, consistent deadheading of spent flowers promotes additional blooming, as with many flowering plants.
Addressing Poor Nutrition
- If plants exhibit poor blooming, consider increasing feeding frequency to every two to three weeks. This is especially important for potted plants, which often require more frequent fertilization.
Managing Extreme Conditions
- Combat reduced blooming caused by extreme heat and dryness by providing shade to the plants and ensuring they receive adequate water during periods of drought or intense heat.
Ensuring Sufficient Light
- While African daisies can tolerate partial shade, insufficient sunlight may lead to leggy growth and reduced blooming. Ensure the plants receive adequate sunlight to promote healthy growth and abundant flowering.
Common Problems With African Daisies
African daisies are predominantly low-maintenance plants. However, aside from typical insect and disease concerns, a few other common issues may arise:
Fungal Issues
- Problem: Damaged or discolored foliage due to fungal infections in damp or humid conditions.
- Solution: Improve air circulation around plants to combat fungal diseases. If necessary, use a fungicide.
Poor Blooming
- Problem: Reduced blooming due to various factors such as poor nutrition, extreme heat, extreme dryness, or insufficient light.
- Solution:
- Increase feeding frequency to every two to three weeks, especially for potted plants.
- Provide shade and extra water during extreme heat and dryness.
- Ensure plants receive sufficient sunlight to avoid leggy growth and promote blooming.
Pest Infestations
- Problem: Common pests like whiteflies and aphids can become problematic, particularly for stressed plants.
- Solution: Control pests with insecticidal soap or chemical sprays if detected early.
Leggy Growth
- Problem: Insufficient sunlight leading to leggy growth and reduced blooming.
- Solution: Ensure plants receive adequate sunlight to promote healthy growth and abundant flowering.
Groundhog Damage
- Problem: Groundhogs may target African daisies, especially annuals, for feeding.
- Solution: Install sturdy fencing as the most effective protection against feeding animals.
Benefits of African Daisy
African daisies offer several benefits in gardens and landscapes:
Vibrant Blooms: African daisies produce colorful and eye-catching flowers, enhancing the visual appeal of gardens and landscapes.
Long Blooming Period: These flowers bloom profusely from spring to fall, providing continuous color throughout the growing season.
Drought Tolerance: Once established, African daisies demonstrate tolerance to drought conditions, requiring minimal watering compared to other plants.
Attracts Pollinators: The nectar-rich blooms of African daisies attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems and biodiversity.
Low Maintenance: African daisies are relatively low-maintenance plants, requiring little attention once established. They are resistant to many pests and diseases.
Versatility: African daisies can be grown in various settings, including flower beds, borders, containers, and rock gardens, offering versatility in landscape design.
Cut Flowers: The long stems and vibrant blooms of African daisies make them excellent choices for cut flower arrangements, bringing their beauty indoors.
Adaptability: These flowers can adapt to different soil types and environmental conditions, making them suitable for a wide range of climates and locations.
FAQs
What is the difference between African daisy and gerbera daisy?
While both belong to the Asteraceae family, the gerbera daisy (Gerbera spp.) is often mistaken for the African daisy. Gerbera daisies typically have shorter stature and larger blooms, often in vivid solid hues of red, orange, and yellow, contrasting with the slightly less intense colors commonly seen in taller African daisies.
What are the best ways to use African daisy in the landscape?
African daisies excel as border and mixed bed flowers, yet unlike numerous daisy varieties, they’re not ideally suited for wildflower meadows or naturalized gardens. They also thrive in containers on patios and decks. Some designers advocate pairing African daisies with plants sporting yellow or chartreuse foliage, accentuating the vibrant colors of the flowers.
Are there other flower species also called African daisies?
The term “African daisy” is occasionally applied to several other species. Notably, annual plants from the Dimorphotheca genus may bear this name. Initially, Osteospermum species were classified within the Dimorphotheca genus; however, these perennial species were later reclassified into their distinct genus. Additionally, gerbera daisies (Gerbera spp.) are also occasionally referred to as African daisies.
Can potted African daisies be moved indoors for the winter?
Unlike certain tender perennials, daisies are not ideally suited for indoor cultivation. Potted outdoor African daisies typically struggle to survive when transferred indoors, unless provided with an optimal environment like a sunroom. Gardeners seeking to overwinter African daisies often find greater success by taking cuttings and rooting them indoors.
Are African Daisy perennial?
African daisies (Osteospermum spp.) are typically grown as tender perennials in zones 9-11, meaning they can survive year-round in these regions with mild winters. In colder climates, they are often treated as annuals because they cannot withstand frost and may not survive the winter. However, with proper protection or by bringing them indoors during the colder months, they can sometimes be overwintered and grown as perennials in colder zones as well.
Are African Daisy flowers edible?
African daisies (Osteospermum spp.) are primarily grown as ornamental flowers and are not commonly consumed as food. While some daisies are edible, it’s important to note that not all varieties are safe for consumption. In the case of African daisies, there is limited information available regarding their edibility, and they are not typically regarded as edible flowers. It’s always best to err on the side of caution and avoid consuming flowers unless you are certain they are safe and intended for culinary use. If you’re interested in edible flowers, consider varieties that are specifically cultivated for consumption and verify their safety before consuming them.
Are African Daisy plants toxic to dogs?
African daisies (Osteospermum spp.) are not typically considered highly toxic to dogs, but they can cause mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested in large quantities. However, it’s always best to monitor your pets around any new plants and consult with a veterinarian if you suspect your dog has consumed any part of an African daisy plant. It’s also a good idea to discourage pets from chewing on plants in general, as some dogs may have sensitivities or allergic reactions to certain plant species.
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