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Description
Osteospermum Snow Pixie, also known as African Daisy Snow Pixie, is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to Africa and is widely grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes. The plant produces beautiful white flowers with yellow centers that bloom from spring to fall. The flowers are daisy-like and have a diameter of 1-2 inches. The leaves of the plant are green, lobed, and slightly hairy. The plant grows up to 12 inches tall and 18 inches wide. Osteospermum Snow Pixie is a hardy plant that can tolerate heat, drought, and poor soil conditions.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliophyta |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Osteospermum |
Appearance
Osteospermum Snow Pixie has a beautiful and eye-catching appearance. The plant produces white flowers with yellow centers that bloom profusely from spring to fall. The flowers are daisy-like and have a diameter of 1-2 inches. The petals of the flowers are slightly curved and have a delicate texture. The leaves of the plant are green, lobed, and slightly hairy. The plant grows up to 12 inches tall and 18 inches wide, making it a perfect choice for container gardens, borders, and rock gardens. Osteospermum Snow Pixie is a relatively low-maintenance plant that adds a touch of elegance to any garden or landscape.
Care Guide
Osteospermum Snow Pixie is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for growing and caring for this beautiful plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot. Allow the soil to dry out slightly before watering again.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering.
- Soil: Plant the Osteospermum Snow Pixie in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant can tolerate poor soil conditions, but it prefers a slightly acidic soil pH.
- Sunlight: The Osteospermum Snow Pixie requires full sun to grow and flower. Make sure the plant receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: Osteospermum Snow Pixie is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It grows well in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Osteospermum Snow Pixie is a relatively pest and disease-free plant. However, it can be susceptible to some common garden pests and diseases, such as:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing leaves and webbing on the plant. Use a miticide to control spider mites.
- Botrytis Blight: This fungal disease can cause brown spots and wilting on the plant. Remove infected plant parts and treat with a fungicide.
Habitat
Osteospermum Snow Pixie is native to Africa and is widely grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes around the world. The plant prefers full sun and well-draining soil, but it can tolerate drought, heat, and poor soil conditions. Osteospermum Snow Pixie is a hardy plant that can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Osteospermum Snow Pixie a perennial or annual plant?
A: Osteospermum Snow Pixie is a perennial plant that can live for several years with proper care.
Q: How often should I water Osteospermum Snow Pixie?
A: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot. Allow the soil to dry out slightly before watering again.
Q: Does Osteospermum Snow Pixie attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, the plant produces beautiful flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Can I grow Osteospermum Snow Pixie in a container?
A: Yes, Osteospermum Snow Pixie is a perfect choice for container gardens, borders, and rock gardens.
Related Plants
- Osteospermum
- Osteospermum Ecklonis
- Osteospermum Serenity
- Osteospermum Blue Eyed Beauty
References
- “Osteospermum Snow Pixie.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287015&isprofile=0.
- “Osteospermum Snow Pixie.” Plant Care Today, 6 May 2021, plantcaretoday.com/osteospermum-snow-pixie/.
- “Osteospermum Snow Pixie.” Gardenia.net, www.gardenia.net/plant/osteospermum-snow-pixie.
