Contents
Description
Felicia Amelloides Santa Anita, also known as Blue Marguerite or Blue Daisy, is a herbaceous perennial plant that is native to South Africa. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is a popular garden plant due to its beautiful blue flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Felicia |
Appearance
The Felicia Amelloides Santa Anita has a bushy habit and can grow up to 30 cm in height and 45 cm in width. Its leaves are green-grey in color and are lance-shaped. The flowers are daisy-like, with a blue-purple color and a yellow center. They bloom from spring to summer and attract bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
The Felicia Amelloides Santa Anita is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water regularly but do not overwater. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
- Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: Use well-draining soil that is enriched with organic matter.
- Sunlight: Plant in full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Felicia Amelloides Santa Anita can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Some common pests and diseases that can affect the Felicia Amelloides Santa Anita include:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause stunted growth and distorted leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
- Whiteflies: These tiny insects can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Use yellow sticky traps or insecticidal soap to control them.
- Rust: This fungal disease can cause orange or brown spots on the leaves. Remove affected leaves and use a fungicide to control the spread.
Habitat
The Felicia Amelloides Santa Anita is native to the Western Cape province of South Africa. It grows in well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. It can also tolerate moderate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Felicia Amelloides Santa Anita grow in containers?
A: Yes, Felicia Amelloides Santa Anita can grow in containers as long as the container has drainage holes and the soil is well-draining.
Q: How often should I fertilize Felicia Amelloides Santa Anita?
A: You should fertilize Felicia Amelloides Santa Anita once a month during the growing season.
Q: Can Felicia Amelloides Santa Anita tolerate frost?
A: No, Felicia Amelloides Santa Anita cannot tolerate frost. It should be grown in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11.
Q: How often should I water Felicia Amelloides Santa Anita?
A: You should water Felicia Amelloides Santa Anita regularly but do not overwater. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Related Plants
- Felicia bergeriana
- Felicia echinata
- Felicia filifolia
- Felicia heterophylla
References
- “Felicia amelloides (Blue Daisy)”. PlantZAfrica.com.
- “Felicia amelloides”. Missouri Botanical Garden.
- “Blue Marguerite (Felicia amelloides)”. Gardenia.net.
