Osteospermum ecklonis 'Astra' - African Daisy

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.

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.