Osteospermum , a dazzle penis of the Asteraceae family , shares its line of descent with sunflower , daisies , and chrysanthemum . This short usher will tell you some awe-inspiring fact about this blossom as well as provide you with quick charge tips .
This plant is aboriginal to South Africa , where it has mastered the art of water preservation , sporting thick , slightly succulent leaves that continue wet amidst arid conditions .
The optic temptingness of osteospermum is undeniable . Its flowers bloom in a mesmerizing palette of vividness — white , yellow , pinkish , purple , and chance upon bicolored varieties , each centered with a classifiable blue or purple eye , affectionately take in it the soubriquet " blue - eyed daisy . "
Dancing with the Sun: Nyctinasty in Osteospermum
Not just a goody for the eye , these blossom engage in a captivating dance with the sun , closing at night or under muddy skies and reopen with the morning ’s warmth . This behavior , cognate to sleeping and waking , tot a dynamic and almost sentient quality to the garden .
The behavior of flowers opening and closing in response to the sunshine is known as " nyctinasty . " This phenomenon is observed in several works specie , where the efflorescence or parting move in response to the daily light cycle .
In osteospermum , this behaviour allows the flowers to close at nighttime or during cloudy weather and reopen with the dawn Lord’s Day .
Nyctinasty is generally suppose to protect the generative role of the industrial plant from cold temperature and moisture during the night and potentially from depredation .
Name and Nomenclature
Osteospermum is a fascinating genus of anthesis plant , mainly known for its daisy - like appearance which contributes to its various uncouth names . The name " Osteospermum " comes from the Greek words " osteon , " mean bone , and " spermum , " meaning seed , referring to the boldness of the plant ’s seeds . This equipment characteristic is a nod to its robust nature , allowing it to fly high in various environments .
One of the most pop name for Osteospermum is theAfrican Daisy , which ponder its aboriginal rootage in South Africa . The name captures the essence of its vibrant and coloured blooms that resemble traditional daisy flowers .
Another vulgar name is theCape Daisy , which specifically points to the Cape of Good Hope part of South Africa where many metal money of the genus are found .
The nameMarguerite , although also used for Argyranthemum frutescens , is sometimes give to Osteospermum . This usage highlights the daisy - like form of the flowers , which is a characteristic partake with the Marguerite Daisy .
The termBlue - eyed Daisyrefers to sure cultivars of Osteospermum that feature a salient dreary nerve centre , contrasting attractively with their white , pinkish , purple , or yellow flower petal .
These names not only help oneself gardeners and plant enthusiasts distinguish and connect with the industrial plant but also emphasize the diverse and global appreciation of its lulu and resiliency .
How to care for an Osteospermum
These beautiful flowers can be a great addition to your garden . Here ’s everything you call for to know about growing African Daisies .
Location and Soil
Osteospermum thrives in full sun to unaccented tincture , which helps promote abundant flowering . The land should be well - drain to prevent any issues with root diseases . Proper grease conditions are crucial for levelheaded growth and vibrant blush .
Planting
Plant your osteospermum in the leap , once the risk of infection of frost has passed , to forfend cold legal injury to new plants . Space the plant about 12 - 18 inches apart to ensure tolerable air circulation and way for ontogenesis . If you are plant in containers , see to it they have drainage holes and apply a potting mix plan for good drainage .
Watering and Feeding
It ’s crucial to irrigate osteospermum deeply and regularly , especially during periods of dry weather . However , take care not to overwater , as this can lead to origin bunk . Feeding the plants with a balanced , slow - release fertilizer in spring and again in midsummer will support vigorous growth and raise flowering .
Care and Maintenance
even deadheading of expend blooms is of the essence to promote uninterrupted unfolding throughout the time of year . In regions where osteospermum is grow as a perennial ( USDA zones 7 - 11 ) , trim back the plants in late winter or early leaping will help maintain a thickset physical body and boost fresh growth .
Seasonal Bloom
Osteospermum typically enjoy a long bloom period from springtime through spill , peaking in recent outflow and former summer . In milder mood , these plants may cover to flower throughout the wintertime months , providing colour and sonority even in the cooler season .
Special Tips for Cold Climates
In colder country ( Agriculture zones 6 and below ) , osteospermum is advantageously uprise as an annual or in container . This allows you to move the plants indoors over winter to protect them from freezing temperature , see to it their survival and bloom the next yr .
