African Daisy Osteospermum 'Buttermilk'
ABOUT
Osteospermum 'Buttermilk', commonly known as African Daisy, features daisy-like flowers that have a distinctive sunny charm. The petals of this plant are a soft, creamy yellow color that fades out to paler hues near the edges, creating a buttery appearance that stands out beautifully against the dark green foliage. At the center of each florid face, a button-like disc, often in a deeper yellow or contrasting color, gives depth and an additional focal point to the blooms. The petals are narrow, elongated, and slightly spoon-shaped, radiating from the center in a symmetrical pattern. African Daisy has a lush, compact growth habit with a rich assembly of oblong to spoon-shaped leaves. The leaves are dark green, often with slightly serrated edges, and provide a dense backdrop for the prolific cheerful blossoms. Each individual flower bears a generous number of petals, which contributes to a full and appealing display. The African Daisy blooms with enthusiasm in the warmer months, delivering a long-lasting display that can brighten up any garden space with its soft, pastel-toned blossoms.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
African Daisy, South African Daisy, Cape Daisy, Blue-Eyed Daisy
Common names
Osteospermum 'Buttermilk'
ToxicityTo humans
The Cape Daisy 'Buttermilk' is not considered toxic to humans. There are no widely recognized symptoms of poisoning from ingestion of the Cape Daisy, as it is generally regarded as a non-toxic plant. However, as with any plant, individual allergic reactions or sensitivity could occur, so it is advisable to exercise caution and keep plants out of reach of small children who may inadvertently ingest plant material.
To pets
The Cape Daisy 'Buttermilk' is not known to be toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. There are no common symptoms associated with the poisoning of pets by the Cape Daisy, as it is typically not poisonous. However, some pets may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of the plant in significant quantities. It is always prudent to monitor your pet and keep ornamental plants out of their reach to prevent any potential issues.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1-2 feet (30-61 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-61 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental value: Osteospermum 'Buttermilk' adds visual appeal to gardens with its daisy-like flowers and creamy yellow color.
- Long blooming season: It typically has an extended flowering period from spring to fall, providing lasting beauty.
- Attracts pollinators: The plant can attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, enhancing pollination in the garden.
- Drought tolerance: Once established, Osteospermum 'Buttermilk' exhibits a degree of drought resistance, making it suitable for xeriscaping or low-water gardens.
- Low maintenance: It generally requires minimal care, making it a good choice for gardeners seeking low-effort plants.
- Versatility: Suitable for borders, containers, and mass plantings, this plant is versatile in landscaping uses.
- Cold hardiness: It is reasonably hardy in cooler climates, surviving in USDA zones 9-11.
- Deer resistance: The plant is not preferred by deer, reducing the likelihood of damage in areas with deer populations.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The blossoms of Osteospermum 'Buttermilk', or African daisy, can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, giving a subtle, creamy hue to textiles.
- African daisy petals can be pressed and incorporated into paper making, creating decorative paper for crafts or invitations.
- These flowers, when dried, can add a delicate fragrance and visual appeal to potpourris.
- Gardeners may use the spent blooms of African daisies as a compost ingredient to enrich soil with organic matter.
- African daisies can serve as indicator plants in gardens, as they close their flowers when light decreases, signaling changing conditions.
- The compact form of African daisies can be used in model landscapes, such as miniature train scenery or fairy gardens, to provide realistic floral elements.
- They can be used in edible landscaping, as their flowers are non-toxic and can aesthetically enhance vegetable gardens although the flowers themselves are not edible.
- When floated in bowls of water, African daisy blooms can be a part of elegant table centerpieces or decorative displays for events.
- Photographers may use African daisies as subjects or background elements due to their textural petals and soft color for macro photography or still life images.
- African daisy petals can be used in art projects, such as natural collages or eco-friendly confetti at celebrations.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe African Daisy is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe African Daisy is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Optimism: As part of the daisy family, Osteospermum, commonly known as African Daisy, often symbolizes positivity and a sunny outlook due to its bright, cheerful appearance reminiscent of a sunny day.
- Resilience: African daisies are known for their hardy nature and ability to thrive in poor soil conditions and drought, symbolizing one's ability to withstand difficult challenges and still flourish.
- Charm and Attraction: The eye-catching petals and the vibrant colors of the African Daisy can symbolize enchantment and the ability to draw in positivity and good vibes, much like how its beauty attracts onlookers and pollinators.
- New Beginnings: Similar to other daisy varieties, they often represent innocence and purity, which can be equated with the start of something new and untarnished.
- Peace and Tranquility: With its soft, pastel 'Buttermilk' color, this specific cultivar of African Daisy may evoke a sense of calm and peace, serving as a reminder to relax and enjoy the simple pleasures in life.
WaterThe African Daisy should be watered deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Typically, you should water the plant once a week with about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water, depending on the climate and the plant's environment. During hot, dry spells, you may need to water twice a week, but always check the soil moisture first. Reduce watering in the winter to every other week or less, as the plant’s water needs decrease significantly during this time. Do not let the plant sit in water as this can lead to root rot.
LightAfrican Daisy thrives best in full sun conditions, receiving at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily. The ideal spot for this plant is in a garden bed or container where it has clear, unfiltered access to sunlight throughout the day. It can tolerate some light shade, especially in hotter climates, but too much shade can lead to poor blooming.
TemperatureAfrican Daisies prefer a temperature range between 50°F and 75°F for optimal growth. They can endure minimum temperatures down to 20°F and maximum temperatures up to 80°F. However, extremes beyond these can stress the plant. The ideal temperature conditions for this plant are moderate, avoiding prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures or extreme heat.
PruningPruning African Daisy helps maintain its shape, encourage bushier growth, and stimulate more blooms. Lightly prune or deadhead spent flowers regularly throughout the blooming season to promote continuous flowering. The best time for more extensive pruning is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Pruning during this period can rejuvenate the plants for the upcoming season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilAfrican daisy 'Buttermilk' thrives in well-draining, light, and sandy soil that is slightly acidic to neutral in pH, ranging from 5.5 to 7.5. A good mix would be two parts peat moss or coco coir, one part perlite or sand, and one part garden soil or compost to ensure proper drainage and fertility.
RepottingAfrican daisy 'Buttermilk' should typically be repotted every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current pot. It's important to provide fresh soil to replenish nutrients and to prevent the roots from becoming pot-bound.
Humidity & MistingAfrican daisy 'Buttermilk' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels, but it performs best in moderate humidity conditions. There's no need for high humidity; average room humidity is generally sufficient.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place African daisy 'Buttermilk' in bright, indirect light indoors.
Outdoor
In a sunny spot, plant African daisy 'Buttermilk' in well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleOsteospermum 'Buttermilk', commonly known as African Daisy, begins its life cycle with the germination of seeds in warm, well-drained soil after the last frost. As seedlings emerge and develop true leaves, they enter the vegetative growth phase, during which they produce a bushy mound of foliage. The plant then advances to the flowering stage, where vibrant yellow flowers bloom from late spring to autumn, attracting pollinators with their colorful daisy-like appearance. Once pollinated, the flowers produce seeds, which mature as the plant begins to senesce in preparation for dormancy or death, depending on the climate. In mild climates, Osteospermum 'Buttermilk' may persist as a perennial, while in colder regions it is grown as an annual, completing its life cycle within one growing season. Through either self-sowing or deliberate collection and replanting of seeds, the cycle can begin anew.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating the Osteospermum 'Buttermilk', commonly known as the African Daisy, is through cuttings. This method is usually performed in late spring or early summer when the plant has fresh, new growth. To propagate an African Daisy using cuttings, select a healthy stem that is 3 to 4 inches (7.6 to 10.2 cm) long and has a couple of leaves on it. Cut the stem just below a leaf node, which is the point where leaves emerge from the stem. Remove the lower leaves to expose a short length of the stem, dip the cut end into rooting hormone, and insert it into a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix. The pot should then be placed in a warm, bright area, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Roots typically form within a few weeks, after which the new plant can be gradually acclimated to outdoor conditions and eventually transplanted into the garden.
