Contents
Description
Osmitopsis Afra, also known as African Daisy, is a perennial plant native to South Africa. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is a popular ornamental plant due to its beautiful flowers. The plant can grow up to 60cm in height and 45cm in width. It has a bushy growth habit with grey-green leaves that are lobed and toothed. The flowers are daisy-like with bright yellow petals and a dark center. The plant blooms from early summer until fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukarya |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Angiosperms |
| Class: | Eudicots |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Osmitopsis |
Appearance
Osmitopsis Afra has grey-green leaves that are lobed and toothed. The leaves are covered in fine hairs that give them a velvety texture. The flowers are daisy-like with bright yellow petals and a dark center. They can grow up to 6cm in diameter and appear in clusters at the end of long stems. The plant can grow up to 60cm in height and 45cm in width. It has a bushy growth habit and is often used as a low hedge or border plant.
Care Guide
Osmitopsis Afra is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for keeping your plant healthy:- Water: The plant prefers well-draining soil and should be watered moderately. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot.- Fertilization: The plant doesn’t require frequent fertilization. Feed it once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. Avoid heavy clay soils as these can retain too much water and lead to root rot.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It requires at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: Osmitopsis Afra is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Osmitopsis Afra is generally pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and root rot if overwatered. Here are some tips for preventing and treating common pests and diseases:- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves. To prevent this disease, avoid overcrowding the plants and ensure good air circulation. If your plant becomes infected, spray it with a fungicide.- Root Rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and poor drainage. To prevent root rot, ensure that the plant is placed in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Osmitopsis Afra is native to South Africa, where it grows in sandy and rocky soils in the Cape Province. The plant is well-adapted to dry and arid conditions and can tolerate drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Does Osmitopsis Afra attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, the plant is a great attractor of bees and butterflies.
Q: Can Osmitopsis Afra grow in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining.
Q: Does Osmitopsis Afra require pruning?
A: The plant doesn’t require frequent pruning. However, you can trim it back after flowering to encourage bushier growth.
Q: Is Osmitopsis Afra toxic to pets?
A: No, the plant is not toxic to pets.
Related Plants
– Osmitopsis Venusta- Osmitopsis Asteriscoides- Osmitopsis Lavigata- Osmitopsis Hirsuta
References
– “Osmitopsis afra.” Plantz Africa. South African National Biodiversity Institute, n.d. Web.- “Osmitopsis afra.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web.- “Osmitopsis afra.” Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, n.d. Web.
