Dazzling African Daisies
Dazzling African Daisies
African daisies are beloved cool-season perennials which provide brilliant, long-lasting color, spring through fall. They attract pollinators and are great as a border plant or in containers. The common name is used for both Osteospermum and Arctotis; both are native to Southern Africa. They are low growing, spreading perennials that form mounds which are 1-3’ in height and 2-3’ wide. Their color ranges from white, yellow, orange, red, coral, pink, blue, lavender, and purple. The flowers of both close at night and on overcast days
‘Blue Eyed Beauty’
Selection from ‘Majec Series’
Selection from ‘Majec Series’
African daisies prefer full sun, rich, well-drained soil and regular fertilization. They can tolerate drought conditions but thrive with regular water. To encourage fullness, pinch foliage back when young and remove spent flowers to stimulate new blooms. They are resilient and free of most pests and diseases, although aphids can be an issue.
‘Big Magenta’
‘Serenity Lavender Frost’
A few of our favorites include:
Arctotis acaulis ‘Big Magenta’ = Large magenta, daisy-like 4” flowers with purplish black centers.
Arctotis ‘Majec Series’ – Large 3-4” fuchsia, pink, strawberry, ruby and scarlet flowers.
Osteospermum ‘Blue Eyed Beauty’ – iridescent yellow flowers with bluish-purple centers.
Oseospermum ‘Serenity Lavender Frost’ – white flowers tipped lavender with vibrant purple/yellow centers.