African daisy [3D Berry White] Osteospermum 3d Berry White = 'Kleoe11185' (3d Series)
ABOUT
[3D Berry White] is a mound-forming, evergreen, frost-tender perennial often grown as a half-hardy annual. The outer ray florets are pink and white; the inner disc florets deep pink and unusually large, forming a mound. The flowers stay open day and night
About this plant
- Names
Family
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
African Daisy, South African Daisy, Cape Daisy, Blue-eyed Daisy.
Common names
Osteospermum ecklonis 'Kleoe11185', Dimorphotheca ecklonis 'Kleoe11185'.
- Characteristics
Life cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
10
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
- General Benefits
- Extended Blooming: The Osteospermum 3d Berry White, part of the 3d Series, is known for its long flowering period which adds color to gardens for most of the growing season.
- Heat Tolerance: This variety is relatively heat resistant, making it suitable for gardens in warmer climates where other plants may struggle.
- Drought Resistance: Once established, it has good drought tolerance, reducing the need for frequent watering and making it an eco-friendlier gardening option.
- Low Maintenance: It generally requires minimal care, which makes it ideal for gardeners looking for plants that do not need extensive upkeep.
- Attracts Pollinators: As with many Osteospermum varieties, the flowers attract beneficial pollinators such as bees and butterflies, which are important for the health of the garden ecosystem.
- Versatility: The plant can be used in various garden settings, including borders, containers, and as ground cover, thereby offering flexibility in landscape design.
- Double Flowers: The 3d series is known for its unique double-flowered form, making it a visually striking addition to any garden display.
- Disease Resistance: It's bred to be resistant to many common plant diseases, which helps ensure a healthier and more resilient plant.
- Medical Properties
This plant is not used for medical purposes.
- Air-purifying Qualities
This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
- Other Uses
- Crafting Natural Dyes: The Osteospermum 3D Berry White can be used to create soft pastel dyes for fabrics due to its delicate colored petals.
- Photography Subject: Its unique three-dimensional blooms can provide an interesting subject for macro and nature photographers.
- Educational Tool: This plant can be used in botany classes to demonstrate hybrid plant breeding techniques due to its distinctive breed.
- Living Mulch: The dense foliage of Osteospermum can be grown as a living mulch, helping to keep the soil moist and prevent weeds.
- Theme Gardens: Ideal for white-themed gardens or moon gardens where they can reflect moonlight and create a glowing effect at night.
- Culinary Decoration: Edible flowers from the Osteospermum plant can be used to garnish desserts and salads, although they may not be palatable.
- Art Inspiration: The striking appearance makes them a good inspiration for artists and can be featured in paintings and floral designs.
- Event Decor: Their long-lasting flowers are suitable for table arrangements or decorations for events like weddings or garden parties.
- Companion Planting: It can be strategically planted in the garden to complement nearby plants and enhance overall garden aesthetics.
- Petal Confetti: Dry the petals to create natural, biodegradable confetti for use in celebrations or crafts.
Interesting Facts
- Feng Shui
The Osteospermum is not used in Feng Shui practice.
- Zodiac Sign Compitability
The Osteospermum is not used in astrology practice.
- Plant Symbolism
- Resilience: Osteospermums, commonly known as African Daisies, are known for their hardiness and ability to thrive in various conditions, symbolizing resilience and the ability to endure challenging circumstances.
- Innocence and Purity: The white color of the 'Berry White' variation specifically evokes feelings of innocence and purity, often associated with the cleanliness and untouched nature of white blooms.
- Beauty and Elegance: African Daisies with their unique shape and striking colors represent beauty and elegance, celebrating natural splendor and sophistication.
- Optimism and Positive Energy: The bright appearance of the Osteospermum flowers can signify optimism and the nurturing of positive energy, reminiscent of a sunny disposition and joyful outlook on life.
- New Beginnings: Like many other flowers that bloom in spring, African Daisies are often associated with new beginnings and the start of a fresh cycle, making them symbols of hope and renewal.
- Water
For African daisy '3D Berry White', it is essential to maintain even moisture without overwatering. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which generally means about once a week. A deep watering is preferred over light sprinklings to encourage root development, using approximately one to two gallons depending on the size of the plant and pot. During the growing season, spring through fall, the plant may require more frequent watering, and always reduce watering in the winter during dormancy.
- Light
African daisy '3D Berry White' thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions. Place it in a spot where it will receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day; however, in extremely hot climates, a little afternoon shade can be beneficial. Avoid deep shade as it will diminish blooming and can lead to legginess of the plant.
- Temperature
The ideal temperature range for African daisy '3D Berry White' is between 50 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. While it can tolerate temperatures as low as 30 degrees Fahrenheit for short periods, frost can damage the plant. Conversely, sustained high temperatures over 80 degrees Fahrenheit can stress the plant and potentially inhibit blooming.
- Pruning
Prune African daisy '3D Berry White' to remove spent flowers and encourage a second bloom. Deadheading regularly can improve the plant's appearance. A more substantial trim can be done in early spring to help maintain the plant's shape and promote vigorous growth. Prune as needed throughout the blooming season to keep the plant looking tidy.
- Cleaning
As needed
- Soil
African daisies like Osteospermum 3D Berry White thrive in well-draining soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. A mix containing two parts potting soil, one part perlite or coarse sand, and one part peat or compost is ideal for ensuring adequate drainage and fertility.
- Repotting
African daisies should be repotted every one to two years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. Check the roots in early spring before new growth starts; if they are circling the pot, it's time to repot.
- Humidity & Misting
African daisies prefer moderate humidity levels, typically between 40-60%. They can tolerate some fluctuation, but consistent humidity within this range is best for their growth and flower production.
- Suitable locations
Indoor
Place in bright, indirect light and ensure good air flow.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, protect from extreme cold.
Hardiness zone
10-11 USDA
- Life cycle
Osteospermum 3D Berry White, commonly known as African Daisy, begins its life as a seed, which, when sown in well-draining soil under the right temperature conditions, will germinate. The seedling stage follows, characterized by the emergence of the first set of true leaves, and requires ample sunlight and water for healthy growth. As it enters the vegetative stage, the African Daisy develops a stronger stem and more leaves, preparing for the flowering phase which is notable for its unique, 3D-like blooms that close at night and on cloudy days. After pollination, which may be less frequent since many Osteospermum are sterile or do not produce viable seeds easily, the plant may potentially enter a fruiting stage where seeds are developed for propagation. The plant will continue to grow and produce flowers for multiple seasons, often treated as an annual or a tender perennial depending on the climate. Finally, as temperatures drop or growing conditions deteriorate, the plant will die back or go dormant, particularly in regions with cold winters, completing its life cycle.
- Propogation
Propogation time
Spring-Summer
The Osteospermum 3D Berry White, commonly known as African Daisy, can be propagated through cuttings, which is the most popular method for this cultivar. The ideal time for taking cuttings is in late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. To propagate by cuttings, a gardener would take a 3 to 4-inch stem cutting from a healthy parent plant, making sure there are a few leaves on the cutting. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end is dipped in rooting hormone before being planted in a moist potting mix. The pot should then be covered with plastic or placed in a propagator to maintain humidity. Roots typically develop within a few weeks, after which the new plant can be transplanted outdoors once the danger of frost has passed.