Osteospermum (Osteospermum)

It is a fast-growing, groundcover daisy grown for its easy care, quick growth and long flowering. Also known as the African daisy, Veldt daisy and sailor boy daisy. Osteospermum is native to parts of Africa.

Once mainly seen as a plant with white flowers with a centre tinged with purple, plant breeders have developed new varieties with colourful flowers in tones of yellow, orange, apricot and deep purple. Some have contrasting colours around the centre of the flower, while others have double or fluted petals.

These plants are evergreen with grey-green foliage and long flowering with many blooming from summer into late autumn and winter, making them a valuable addition to any sunny garden. Grow as a low-growing groundcover or edging plant, it forms a moulding habit around 50 to 75cm high that will spread to around 1.3 metres.

Osteospermum are easy to grow, mass planted in a garden bed, rockeries or a cottage-style garden.  They are also ideal in a pot on planted on its own or teamed with other plants with their smiling faces (flowers) blowing in the wind.

Growing conditions

Aspect Best in full sun. While plants grow in part sun, flowering is better in full sun. Flowers may stay closed on overcast days.

Soil Osteospermum are not fussy about soils as they will adapt to most, but grow best in rich soil with good drainage. However, Osteospermum does not like heavy, clay soil or wet conditions.

When planting into the soil, incorporate homemade compost or organic matter and/or Seasol Super Compost into the soil prior to planting. If planting into large containers, use a premium potting mix such as Seasol Advanced Potting Mix.

Climate Grows in all climates but needs frost protection in very cold regions.

General care

Watering Once established, African daisy is drought hardy but may need extra water when conditions are dry for extended periods. Water more frequently if plants are in containers.

Where the soil is water repellent, apply Seasol Super Soil Wetter & Conditioner. Water with Seasol or Seasol GOLD regularly every two weeks to promote healthy growth and reduce stress from heat, drought, pests and diseases.

Feeding and mulching Feed as new growth begins in spring with a complete fertiliser.

Osteospermum like to be fed from spring as new growth appears, through to the last flowers in autumn. Feed with a fertiliser for flowering plants such as Seasol plus Nutrients Roses & Flowers. Supplement this with a liquid fertiliser such as PowerFeed PRO SERIES for Roses & Flowers every two to four weeks.

Mulch around and between clumps with organic mulch to aid soil moisture retention and keep weeds at bay.

Pruning If plants are looking tatty, they can be cut back at any time to encourage new growth and reflowering (avoid heavy pruning in winter in very cold areas).

Watch out Few pest or disease problems make this a trouble-free addition to the garden.