Contents
Description
Dimorphotheca Cuneata, also known as the African Daisy, is a perennial plant native to South Africa. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is a popular choice for gardeners due to its beautiful flowers and easy-to-grow nature. The plant typically reaches a height of 12-18 inches and produces daisy-like flowers in various colors including white, pink, yellow, and orange.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Dimorphotheca |
Appearance
The African Daisy has a bushy, compact habit with stems that are covered in fine hairs. Its leaves are grey-green and can be either toothed or lobed, depending on the variety. The flowers are single or double and can be up to 3 inches in diameter. They have a yellow center surrounded by petals in various colors including white, pink, yellow, and orange. The blooming period is from spring to fall.
Care Guide
Water: African Daisies require regular watering, especially during dry spells. However, they do not like to sit in water, so make sure the soil is well-drained.
Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic.
Sunlight: African Daisies require full sun to thrive.
Hardiness Zones: The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and can grow in hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Common pests that affect African Daisies include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Diseases that can affect the plant include powdery mildew and root rot.
Habitat
The African Daisy is native to South Africa but can now be found in many parts of the world, including North America, Europe, and Australia. It prefers sunny, dry locations and can tolerate poor soil conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my African Daisy?
A: African Daisies require regular watering, especially during dry spells. However, they do not like to sit in water, so make sure the soil is well-drained.
Q: What is the blooming period of the African Daisy?
A: The blooming period is from spring to fall.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the African Daisy?
A: The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and can grow in hardiness zones 9-11.
Q: What are the common pests that affect African Daisies?
A: Common pests that affect African Daisies include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies.
Related Plants
- Dimorphotheca Aurantiaca
- Dimorphotheca Echinata
- Dimorphotheca Pluvialis
References
- “Dimorphotheca cuneata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c463. Accessed 29 July 2021.
- “African Daisy (Dimorphotheca).” Gardenia, www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/dimorphotheca-african-daisy. Accessed 29 July 2021.
