African daisy
Also known as
Cape daisy, Cape marguerite, Osteospermum, Dimorphotheca ecklonis
Keep this plant’s care guide close at hand.
Get the appAbout African daisy
Dimorphotheca ecklonis, widely grown under the current name Osteospermum ecklonis, is a cool-season, evergreen subshrub or short-lived perennial prized for abundant, daisy-like blooms in white, lavender, pink, or purple with striking blue to violet centers. Plants form compact to mounding clumps 30–60 cm tall, with lanceolate, sometimes toothed leaves on branching, semi-woody stems. Flowers are nyctinastic, opening fully in bright sun and closing at night or in overcast conditions, which protects pollen and extends bloom life. Native to South Africa’s coastal and montane regions, it thrives in well-drained, sandy to loamy soils and Mediterranean-type climates. It is drought-tolerant once established, performs best in full sun with cool nights, and benefits from regular deadheading to prolong flowering from spring through early summer, often reblooming in autumn where summers are not excessively hot. Highly valued for borders, rock gardens, and containers, it also offers modest salt and wind tolerance, making it suitable for coastal plantings provided drainage is excellent.
Taxonomy
Properties & Requirements
How to care for African daisy
Water
Water deeply but infrequently. In-ground plants typically need about 2.5 cm (1 inch) of water weekly during active growth, less if rainfall is reliable. Allow the top 2–3 cm of soil to dry between waterings; never let pots sit in saucers of water. Containers dry faster—check moisture with a finger and water when the top layer is dry. Morning watering reduces disease risk. Reduce frequency in cool weather and during summer dormancy spells when flowering pauses.
Light
Full sun yields the best flowering—aim for 6–8 hours of direct light. Blooms open widest in bright sun and will close in shade, at night, or on overcast days. In very hot regions, provide light afternoon shade to prevent heat stress and extend bloom duration. Indoors or on balconies, place near a south-facing window or under strong grow lights for 12–14 hours daily to maintain compact growth and consistent flowering.
Nutrients
Feed lightly; excessive nitrogen promotes foliage at the expense of flowers. In beds, blend compost into the planting hole and apply a balanced, low- to moderate-nitrogen, slow‑release fertilizer (e.g., 5‑10‑10 or 8‑12‑16) at planting and again midseason. For containers, supplement every 2–4 weeks with a half‑strength liquid bloom formula higher in phosphorus and potassium. Ensure micronutrients (especially iron and magnesium) in alkaline soils, and avoid fertilizing during peak heat or drought stress.
Temperature
Prefers cool to mild conditions: ideal days 15–24°C (59–75°F) and nights 7–13°C (45–55°F). Heat above ~30°C (86°F) can slow or pause blooming; provide afternoon shade and steady moisture during hot spells. Frost-sensitive—brief light frost may damage buds and foliage; protect or overwinter cuttings in regions below USDA Zone 9–10. In colder climates, treat as an annual or bring containers indoors to a bright, cool, frost-free spot for the winter.
