African Daisy (Osteospermum fruticosum)

Osteospermum fruticosum01.jpg. by JoJan. Public domain. via Wikimedia Commons

Public domain ยท Wikimedia Commons

African Daisy Plant Care

Osteospermum fruticosum (L.) Norl.

This plant features vibrant, daisy-like flowers that come in shades of purple, pink, and white. Originating from South Africa, Osteospermum fruticosum is highly sought after by plant collectors for its striking blooms and ability to attract butterflies and bees to the garden.

๐ŸŒฑHerbs๐ŸŒผPerennials๐ŸŒปAnnuals
Water

Every 3โ€“7 days

Light

Full sun to partial shade

Temp

60โ€“80ยฐF

Humidity

50โ€“70%

What Is the African Daisy?

African Daisy (Osteospermum fruticosum) belongs to the Asteraceae family within the Osteospermum genus. African Daisy is native to coastal areas of South Africa. African Daisy is also known as Trailing African Daisy, Bush Daisy, Blaxium decumbens.

African Daisy displays a low spreading perennial growth habit, reaching up to 1 inches tall with a spread of approximately 2 inches. African Daisy produces daisy-like flowers in various colors such as purple, pink, white, and yellow.

Leaf size: approximately 0 inches.

How Often Should You Water a African Daisy?

Osteospermum fruticosum requires watering every 3โ€“7 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.

Watering Frequency

Every 3โ€“7 days

Let soil partially dry between waterings

What Light Does the African Daisy Need?

African Daisy thrives in full sun to partial shade light conditions. The optimal light range is 0โ€“0 lux. Avoid placing African Daisy in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Light Requirement

Full sun to partial shade

0โ€“0 lux

What Temperature and Humidity Does the African Daisy Prefer?

Osteospermum fruticosum grows best at temperatures between 60ยฐF and 80ยฐF. African Daisy prefers humidity levels of 50โ€“70%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.

Temperature

60โ€“80ยฐF

Humidity

50โ€“70%

What Soil Mix Works Best for a African Daisy?

Well-draining sandy soil mix with added perlite for improved drainage. Good drainage is essential for African Daisy to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

How Do You Repot a African Daisy?

Repot every 1-2 years in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.

How Do You Propagate a African Daisy?

African Daisy can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings.

Fertilizing

Every 1 month

During the growing season

Is the African Daisy Toxic to Pets and Children?

Non-Toxic

Non-toxic to humans and pets

What Pests and Diseases Affect the African Daisy?

African Daisy is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, whiteflies. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the African Daisy Need?

African Daisy grows outdoors in USDA Zone 9a โ€“ 11b. Native to coastal areas of South Africa, African Daisy is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow African Daisy as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.

Hardiness Zone

Zone 9a โ€“ 11b

Keep exploring plants

African Daisy is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.

It belongs to the Osteospermum genus โ€” compare its care with other Osteospermum species on PlantoScan.

African Daisy tolerates low-light rooms and shaded spots โ€” browse the full list of low-light plants.

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