Grown mostly as an annual in the UK, this plant produces daisy-like flowers in a variety of vibrant pastel shades. Half-hardy in parts of the UK, down to -5°C.
The African Daisy produces blooms in fantastic shades from pastel lemon yellows to vibrant purples, deep blues to bright pinks all growing on long stems with vibrant, mid-green foliage. While it is only half-hardy in the UK, it is perfect to grow as a stunning annual, or as a perennial if you can go the extra mile with keeping it sheltered and free from frost. However you grow them, the African Daisies are a beautiful addition to your garden, and will bring a pop of colour and can really thrive in a sunny corner.
Perennial, often grown as an annual in colder areas of the UK. |
Flower: spreading branched growth habit |
Flowers in summer, foliage year-round. |
Scientific Name
Osteospermum ecklonis 'Astra' (bone-seed, Ecklon's species, variety: star)
Common Name
African Daisy, Daisybushes
Origin
Native to South Africa
Pruning Tips
Deadhead spent flowers to prolong blooming.
Wildlife Value
This plant's nectar- and pollen-rich flowers are known for attracting bees and other pollinators.
Positioning
Full sun and a sheltered spot will be best for this plant.
Water
Water in drier weather to keep them hydrated and reduce the risk of downy mildew
Soil
Ensure your soil drains well; you can dig sand or grit through to help if you have heavy soil.
Food
Dig through fresh compost to ensure the soil is nice and fertile before planting; use a liquid feed over summer to give the flowers an extra boost. A feed high in potassium (e.g. tomato feed) would work well here.
Pet-safe
Yes; no toxicity reported, though it's best for the plant, your pets and your harvest if they don't nibble too much!
Sprouts Top Tips
To keep your plant for longer than a year, make sure it's in a sheltered spot with plenty of sun, where it is warmer and less likely to get any frost. It's a good idea to propagate reserve plants each year, and keep younger plants in frost-free conditions, e.g. in a greenhouse, over winter. If your garden is especially frost-prone, you can grow your African Daisy in a container and bring it indoors over winter.
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Love my new plant baby. Arrived quickly, well packaged and healthy. Seller really helpful too.
Love my new plant baby. Arrived quickly, well packaged and healthy. Seller really helpful too.
Love my new plant baby. Arrived quickly, well packaged and healthy. Seller really helpful too.
Love my new plant baby. Arrived quickly, well packaged and healthy. Seller really helpful too.
Well packed quick delivery and very healthy cactus
Thank you