Osteospermum , a dazzling member of the Asteraceae family , share its lineage with sunflowers , daisies , and chrysanthemums . This myopic pathfinder will tell you some amazing facts about this flower as well as provide you with quick forethought tips .
This flora is aboriginal to South Africa , where it has overcome the artwork of piss preservation , run around thick , slightly succulent foliage that keep back moisture amidst arid conditions .
The visual allure of osteospermum is undeniable . Its heyday blossom in a mesmerizing palette of color — blank , yellow , pink , purple , and striking dichromatic kind , each center with a typical blue or regal center , affectionately earning it the cognomen " blue - eyed daisy . "
Dancing with the Sun: Nyctinasty in Osteospermum
Not just a treat for the eyes , these flowers engage in a captivating dance with the Lord’s Day , closing at night or under nebulous skies and reopen with the morning ’s warmth . This demeanor , consanguine to sleeping and waking , adds a dynamic and almost sentient quality to the garden .
The behavior of bloom opening and closing in reception to the sunlight is known as " nyctinasty . " This phenomenon is observed in several plant specie , where the flowers or leave move in response to the daily tripping cycle .
In osteospermum , this behavior countenance the flowers to close up at night or during cloudy weather condition and reopen with the morning sun .
Nyctinasty is by and large thought to protect the reproductive part of the plant from cold temperature and moisture during the dark and potentially from predation .
Name and Nomenclature
Osteospermum is a fascinating genus of flowering industrial plant , in the main known for its daisy - like appearance which contributes to its various plebeian public figure . The name " Osteospermum " derive from the Greek words " osteon , " intend osseous tissue , and " spermum , " meaning seed , touch to the hardiness of the plant life ’s ejaculate . This characteristic is a nod to its robust nature , allowing it to fly high in diverse environments .
One of the most popular names for Osteospermum is theAfrican Daisy , which mull its native origination in South Africa . The name captures the essence of its vibrant and colourful salad days that resemble traditional daisy flowers .
Another common name is theCape Daisy , which specifically repoint to the Cape of Good Hope region of South Africa where many species of the genus are found .
The nameMarguerite , although also used for Argyranthemum frutescens , is sometimes applied to Osteospermum . This usage highlights the daisy - like form of the peak , which is a characteristic shared with the Marguerite Daisy .
The termBlue - eyed Daisyrefers to certain cultivars of Osteospermum that feature a spectacular blue centre , contrast attractively with their white , pinkish , over-embellished , or yellow petals .
These name calling not only aid gardeners and industrial plant enthusiasts place and connect with the industrial plant but also emphasize the diverse and worldwide hold of its beauty and resiliency .
How to care for an Osteospermum
These beautiful flowers can be a great addition to your garden . Here ’s everything you need to sleep together about develop African Daisies .
Location and Soil
Osteospermum expand in full sun to light tad , which assist further abundant efflorescence . The soil should be well - draining to preclude any event with root diseases . right soil conditions are crucial for goodish growth and vibrant blooms .
Planting
imbed your osteospermum in the spring , once the risk of hoarfrost has passed , to head off cold damage to unexampled plants . Space the plant about 12 - 18 inches aside to ascertain passable zephyr circulation and room for outgrowth . If you are planting in containers , check they have drainage maw and use a potting intermixture designed for good drain .
Watering and Feeding
It ’s important to irrigate osteospermum deeply and regularly , specially during period of ironic weather . However , take care not to overwater , as this can head to root rot . feed the industrial plant with a balanced , sluggish - release plant food in spring and again in midsummer will support vigorous growth and heighten unfolding .
Care and Maintenance
steady deadheading of expend blossom is all important to encourage continuous blossoming throughout the time of year . In region where osteospermum is grown as a repeated ( USDA zones 7 - 11 ) , trim back the plant in late winter or early spring will help maintain a compendious shape and encourage refreshing ontogenesis .
Seasonal Bloom
Osteospermum typically revel a long bloom period from leap through fall , peaking in late springiness and early summertime . In milder climates , these plants may continue to flower throughout the wintertime months , allow for color and vibrancy even in the cooler time of year .
Special Tips for Cold Climates
In cold areas ( Department of Agriculture zones 6 and below ) , osteospermum is best grown as an yearly or in containers . This allows you to move the plant indoors over wintertime to protect them from freeze temperatures , ensuring their survival and bloom the undermentioned year .
