Osteospermum Fruticosum, commonly known as Trailing African Daisy, is a beautiful and easy-to-grow plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. This plant is native to South Africa and is widely cultivated for its stunning flowers that bloom in a range of colors, including pink, purple, and white.
Contents
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Osteospermum |
Appearance
Osteospermum Fruticosum is a bushy and trailing plant that can grow up to 30 cm tall and 1 meter wide. The leaves are lance-shaped, gray-green, and about 5 cm long. The flowers are daisy-like with a yellow center and a ring of petals around it. The petals can be pink, purple, or white and can grow up to 5 cm in diameter. The flowers bloom from spring to fall and attract bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Osteospermum Fruticosum is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you take care of your Trailing African Daisy:
- Water: Water your plant regularly, but make sure the soil is well-draining to prevent root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your plant once a month with a balanced fertilizer to encourage blooming.
- Soil: Plant your Trailing African Daisy in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Osteospermum Fruticosum is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Like all plants, Osteospermum Fruticosum is susceptible to pests and diseases. Here are some common issues to look out for:
- Aphids: These small insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause yellowing and distortion of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause webbing on the leaves and yellowing of the plant. Use a miticide to control them.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves. Use a fungicide to control it.
Habitat
Osteospermum Fruticosum is native to South Africa and can be found growing in a range of habitats, including grasslands, scrublands, and rocky outcrops. In cultivation, this plant is often used as a groundcover or in hanging baskets.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Osteospermum Fruticosum a perennial or an annual plant?
A: Osteospermum Fruticosum is a perennial plant in USDA hardiness zones 9-11, but it is often grown as an annual in cooler climates.
Q: How often should I water my Trailing African Daisy?
A: Water your plant regularly, but make sure the soil is well-draining to prevent root rot. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: Can I grow Osteospermum Fruticosum in a hanging basket?
A: Yes, Trailing African Daisy is a great plant for hanging baskets because of its trailing habit and beautiful flowers.
Q: How do I propagate Osteospermum Fruticosum?
A: You can propagate Trailing African Daisy by taking stem cuttings in spring or early summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and in a warm, bright location until the cuttings have rooted.
Related Plants
- Osteospermum Ecklonis
- Osteospermum Jucundum
- Osteospermum Serotinum
References
- “Osteospermum fruticosum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b831 (accessed October 20, 2021).
- “Trailing African Daisy.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/23809/i-osteospermum-fruticosum-i/details (accessed October 20, 2021).
