Contents
Description
Osteospermum Ecklonis 4D Pink is a flowering plant native to South Africa. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is a popular choice for gardeners due to its striking pink flowers. The plant is also known as the African Daisy or Cape Daisy.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Osteospermum |
Appearance
Osteospermum Ecklonis 4D Pink has a compact, mounding habit and can grow up to 12 inches tall and 18 inches wide. The plant produces numerous pink flowers with yellow centers that bloom from spring to fall. The flowers are approximately 2 inches in diameter and have a daisy-like appearance. The leaves are green and slightly hairy, with a toothed margin.
Care Guide
To ensure the optimal growth of Osteospermum Ecklonis 4D Pink, it is important to follow these care guidelines:Water: Water the plant regularly, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.Fertilization: Feed the plant every 2 to 3 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.Soil: Plant Osteospermum Ecklonis 4D Pink in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH.Sunlight: Plant the Osteospermum Ecklonis 4D Pink in a location that receives full sun. The plant requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive.Hardiness Zones: Osteospermum Ecklonis 4D Pink is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Osteospermum Ecklonis 4D Pink is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases:Pests: Aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies can all infest the plant. Treat infestations with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.Diseases: The plant is susceptible to fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew and root rot. Ensure that the plant is not overwatered and has good air circulation to prevent these diseases.
Habitat
Osteospermum Ecklonis 4D Pink is native to South Africa, where it grows in rocky or sandy soil in full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Osteospermum Ecklonis 4D Pink be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage and the soil is well-draining.Q: How often should Osteospermum Ecklonis 4D Pink be fertilized?
A: The plant should be fertilized every 2 to 3 weeks during the growing season.Q: What is the ideal soil pH for Osteospermum Ecklonis 4D Pink?
A: The plant prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH.Q: What should I do if my Osteospermum Ecklonis 4D Pink develops powdery mildew?
A: Treat the plant with a fungicide and ensure that it has good air circulation.
Related Plants
Other plants in the Osteospermum genus include:
- Osteospermum ‘Lady Leitrim’
- Osteospermum ‘Nuanza Purple’
- Osteospermum ‘Akila Daisy White’
- Osteospermum ‘Passion Mix’
References
- “Osteospermum Ecklonis 4D Pink.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 22 April 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=278882&isprofile=1&basic=osteospermum>.
- “African Daisy (Osteospermum Ecklonis).” The Spruce. Accessed 22 April 2021. <https://www.thespruce.com/growing-african-daisy-1902374>.
- “Osteospermum.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 22 April 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/17405/Osteospermum/Details>.
