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Daisy - Cape Marguerite Daisy (Osteospermum ecklonis) African Daisy Cape Daisies Flower

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Daisy - Cape Marguerite Daisy (Osteospermum) African Cape Daisies Flower

Annual

Height 1 to 3 ft

Cape Daisy, also known as African daisy, South African daisy, Cape marigold, blue-eyed daisy, or sunscape daisy is a member of the Osteospermum family; it was once classified in the Dimorphotheca genus, (along with the Cape marigold (Dimorphotheca sinuata)), but the name was officially changed. These ornamental plants are native to South Africa, and are perennials that will come back every year in warmer climates, otherwise they are grown as annuals. In colder areas, before the first frost, you can take cuttings to propagate new plants indoors through the winter.

This variety, Osteospermum ecklonis, is a hybrid. We chose this variety due to the popularity of the white petals. Flowers are fairly low-maintenance and deadheading promotes continuous blooms. The beautiful flowers open their petals when the sunlight hits them and reveals a dark center ringed with purple that is highly attractive to bees and butterflies. Petals are edible with a slightly bitter, citrusy/spice flavor.

Watering: best to aim for about an inch per week. Use a watering can or the mist setting on your hose to avoid washing away the seeds until they are established. Provide osteospermum regular feedings throughout the season for the best blooms and keep them watered regularly, but let the plants dry out between waterings. This is a great plant for containers.

  • Full sun
  • Rich soil ( It is recommended to add a very light layer of compost over the ground and sprinkle the seeds over the top and water in lightly)
  • Direct seed: after all danger of frost has passed. The seedlings won't tolerate cold temperatures, so you’ve got to be patient if you’re direct sowing; wait until the soil has warmed up.
  • OR start seed indoors 8 to 10 weeks before the last frost date. Plant seeds in well draining soil mix and cover slightly or scatter over compost layer and press in to create contact. Water in from bottom. Harden off seedlings over a period of 2 weeks. Carefully remove seedlings from the cell tray to reduce root disturbance.
  • Spacing: sow the seeds 6 in apart
  • Germination: 3 to 4 weeks
  • Blooms: late summer through fall
  • Seed Count: 25