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Description
Osteospermum Ilicifolium, commonly known as the “African Daisy,” is a species of flowering plant in the family Asteraceae. It is native to South Africa, where it grows in rocky areas, grasslands, and scrublands. The plant has a bushy habit and can grow up to 1 foot tall and 2 feet wide. It produces large, showy, daisy-like flowers that come in various colors, including white, pink, purple, and yellow. The flowers bloom from late spring to early fall, attracting bees and butterflies. Osteospermum Ilicifolium is a popular ornamental plant, often used in gardens, borders, and containers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Osteospermum |
Appearance
Osteospermum Ilicifolium has dark green, glossy, spiny leaves that are deeply lobed and resemble holly leaves. The leaves grow up to 2 inches long and 1 inch wide. The plant produces large, daisy-like flowers that can reach up to 3 inches in diameter. The flowers have a central disk of yellow or brown florets surrounded by 8-10 ray florets that come in various colors, including white, pink, purple, and yellow. The flowers bloom from late spring to early fall and attract bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Osteospermum Ilicifolium is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow. Here are some care tips:Water: Water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every 2-3 weeks during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.Soil: Plant Osteospermum Ilicifolium in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Osteospermum Ilicifolium is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Osteospermum Ilicifolium is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be affected by aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. To prevent infestations, keep the plant clean and well-watered. If necessary, treat the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew and botrytis. To prevent fungal infections, avoid overwatering and provide good air circulation.
Habitat
Osteospermum Ilicifolium is native to South Africa, where it grows in rocky areas, grasslands, and scrublands. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It is a drought-tolerant plant that can survive in hot and dry conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Osteospermum Ilicifolium?
A: Water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.Q: Can I grow Osteospermum Ilicifolium in a container?
A: Yes, Osteospermum Ilicifolium can be grown in a container as long as the soil is well-draining and the container has drainage holes.Q: How tall can Osteospermum Ilicifolium grow?
A: Osteospermum Ilicifolium can grow up to 1 foot tall and 2 feet wide.Q: Does Osteospermum Ilicifolium attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, Osteospermum Ilicifolium produces large, showy, daisy-like flowers that attract bees and butterflies.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Osteospermum Ilicifolium:- Osteospermum Ecklonis (Cape Daisy)- Osteospermum Serenity Blushing Beauty (African Daisy)- Osteospermum Zion Purple Sun (African Daisy)- Osteospermum 4D Lemon Ice (African Daisy)
References
– “Osteospermum Ilicifolium.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=k370.- “Osteospermum Ilicifolium.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science, powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:253258-1.
