Commonly known as African Daisy, Osteospermum is a striking and versatile flowering plant native to South Africa. A member of the Asteraceae family, it is closely related to other popular daisy-like flowers such as Shasta Daisies, Coreopsis, and Echinacea. Osteospermum has become a favorite among gardeners for its ability to produce an abundance of colorful blooms during the cooler months of the growing Season, often flowering heavily in Spring and again in Fall when temperatures moderate. Its flowers come in an incredible range of colors, from dazzling purples, blues, and lavenders to bright pinks, oranges, yellows, and crisp whites. Many modern varieties also feature unique color combinations, contrasting centers, spoon-shaped petals, or metallic-looking flower eyes that add even more visual interest. When planted in early Spring and given proper care, Osteospermum delivers months of vibrant color and remains one of the most eye-catching cool-Season flowering plants available to gardeners.
Our Selection of Osteospermum
At Martin Garden Center, we consider Osteospermum to be a transitional plant. We do not grow this plant but carry the Margarita series of all colors offered through our favorite vendor. In March and April, it is absolutely gorgeous, but it will go dormant in the hot summer, and then come back in the fall. So, if you play it smart, you plant Osteospermum in March and let it flower until the summer. Know that it won’t come back into flower until cool weather circa September or October, and fill in around it with the hot summer flowering plants.
How to Grow Osteospermum
- Planting Location and Soil: African Diasy thrives in well-drained soil and full sunlight. Choose a planting location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. These plants prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil and can tolerate poor soil conditions, making them versatile for various garden settings. Ensure the soil has good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
- Watering Requirements: Osteospermum is drought-tolerant once established, but regular watering is essential, especially during dry spells. Water the plants at the base to keep the foliage dry and reduce the risk of fungal diseases. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Applying a layer of mulch around the plants helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Pruning and Deadheading: Pruning Osteospermum helps maintain a compact and bushy shape, encouraging continuous flowering. Pinch back the tips regularly to promote branching and discourage legginess. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage the production of new blooms. This not only enhances the plant’s overall appearance but also prolongs the flowering period.
- Fertilization: Osteospermum doesn’t require excessive fertilization, but feeding them with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season can enhance their performance. Apply fertilizer according to the recommended dosage on the package. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
- Pest and Disease Management: Osteospermum is relatively resistant to pests, but occasional issues with aphids or spider mites may arise. Regularly inspect the plants for signs of pests and treat them promptly if found. Proper spacing and avoiding overhead watering contribute to a healthier, disease-resistant Osteospermum garden.
Leaves and Flowers
The leaves are typically dark green with a smooth and glossy texture. They have a lanceolate shape, featuring elongated, narrow blades that taper to a point. The edges of the leaves are usually serrated or toothed, adding an element of intricacy. The foliage forms a lush backdrop for the plant’s vibrant and diverse flowers, which bloom in an array of captivating colors, ranging from white and pink to purple and orange.
The flowers of Osteospermum have a distinctive daisy-like appearance, with a central disc surrounded by ray-like petals. The petals can be single or double and are typically large and showy, making them a focal point in any garden or landscape. In addition, pollinators such as sees and butterflies are often drawn to its colorful flowers.
Uses in the Garden
Osteospermum is an excellent addition to any landscape, as it offers a variety of uses. Its vibrant flowers make it an eye-catching plant for garden beds, borders, and containers. It can also be used in rock gardens, cottage gardens, and coastal gardens, as it can tolerate salt spray and windy conditions. Osteospermum is often used as a groundcover or a low-growing shrub, as it can form dense mats of foliage that help suppress weeds and erosion. Its long flowering season, which typically lasts from spring to fall, provides continuous color and interest in the garden.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Osteospermum Annual or Perennial?
In colder climates, Osteospermum is often grown as an annual, as it is not frost-tolerant and will not survive freezing temperatures such as in our Upstate climate. However, in warmer climates, it can be grown as a perennial, returning year after year with proper care.
Do Deer and Rabbits Eat Osteospermum?
The African Daisy is generally considered to be deer-resistant and unappealing to rabbits. Deer and Rabbits typically avoid plants with strong scents, and Osteospermum falls into that category. While no plant is entirely safe, Osteospermum is not typically at the top of deer or rabbits preferred menu.