Contents
Description
The Osteospermum Astra White is a stunning flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to South Africa and is commonly known as the African Daisy or Cape Daisy. The plant is an evergreen perennial that produces beautiful white flowers with yellow centers. It is a popular choice for gardens, borders, and containers due to its attractive blooms and easy maintenance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Osteospermum |
Appearance
The Osteospermum Astra White is a low-growing plant that reaches a height of about 12 inches and a spread of 18 inches. Its leaves are green and lance-shaped, with toothed margins. The flowers are daisy-like, with white petals that surround a yellow center. They bloom from spring to fall and attract bees and butterflies to the garden.
Care Guide
The Osteospermum Astra White is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:
Water: The plant prefers well-drained soil and should be watered regularly. However, be careful not to overwater as this can cause root rot.
Fertilization: The plant should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil.
Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it will produce fewer flowers.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11. In colder climates, it can be grown as an annual or brought indoors during the winter.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Osteospermum Astra White is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, which can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering. The plant can also attract aphids and spider mites, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The Osteospermum Astra White is native to South Africa and prefers warm, sunny climates. It can tolerate some drought but prefers regular watering. The plant is commonly found in gardens, borders, and containers.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Osteospermum Astra White poisonous?
A: No, the plant is not toxic to humans or animals.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Osteospermum Astra White?
A: The plant should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can the Osteospermum Astra White be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors as long as it receives plenty of sunlight and is not overwatered.
Q: How do I propagate the Osteospermum Astra White?
A: The plant can be propagated by taking stem cuttings in the spring or summer and rooting them in a well-draining soil mix.
Related Plants
- Osteospermum Blue Eyed Beauty
- Osteospermum Ecklonis
- Osteospermum Serenity
- Osteospermum Voltage Yellow
References
- “Osteospermum Astra White.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277709&isprofile=0&basic=Osteospermum.
- “Osteospermum Astra White.” Plant Care Today, 14 Nov. 2020, plantcaretoday.com/osteospermum-astra-white.
- “Osteospermum Astra White.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/259834/Osteospermum-Astra-White-(PBR)/Details.
