Mesembryanthemum - Mesembryanthemum criniflorum ‘Harlequin’ (Livingstone Daisy) Non-GMO - Organically Grown - Flower

Mesembryanthemum - Mesembryanthemum criniflorum ‘Harlequin’ (Livingstone Daisy) Non-GMO - Organically Grown - Flower

Type: Annual

Family: Aizoaceae

Description:

Mesembryanthemum criniflorum ‘Harlequin’, commonly known as Livingstone Daisy, is a vibrant, low-growing annual prized for its dazzling, multi-colored daisy-like blooms. The flowers range from bright pinks, oranges, yellows, and reds, often with contrasting centers, creating a kaleidoscope of color. The succulent, fleshy leaves make this plant drought-tolerant and ideal for sunny, dry areas. It is perfect for rock gardens, borders, or containers, and blooms continuously from late spring to early fall.

Height: 6–8 inches

Spread: 10–12 inches

Growing Instructions:

1. Soil: Prefers sandy, well-drained soil with low fertility. Avoid heavy, water-retentive soils.

2. Light: Requires full sun for optimal growth and flowering. Blooms close during overcast or shaded conditions.

3. Water: Water sparingly; allow the soil to dry out between watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot.

4. Spacing: Space plants 6–8 inches apart for a dense, colorful ground cover.

5. Fertilizer: Minimal feeding required; apply a diluted liquid fertilizer once a month during the growing season if necessary.

Maintenance:

Minimal maintenance required. Deadheading is not needed as the plant self-cleans spent blooms. Protect from frost, as it is sensitive to cold.

Stratification Instructions:

Mesembryanthemum criniflorum ‘Harlequin’ seeds do not require stratification, as they germinate readily under proper conditions.

Sowing Instructions:

• Indoors:

1. Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost.

2. Scatter seeds lightly on the soil surface without covering them, as they require light to germinate.

3. Keep soil moist but not waterlogged at a temperature of 65–70°F.

4. Germination occurs in 7–14 days.

5. Transplant seedlings outdoors after the danger of frost has passed.

• Outdoors:

1. Direct sow after the last frost date.

2. Prepare the soil by loosening it and removing weeds.

3. Scatter seeds on the surface and press them lightly into the soil.

Seed Count: 25

Uses:

Ideal for rock gardens, containers, borders, and sunny slopes. Often used as a ground cover due to its low, spreading growth habit.