African Daisy Osteospermum 'Hopleys'
ABOUT
Osteospermum 'Hopleys', widely known as the African daisy, has a striking and cheerful appearance, characterized by its daisy-like composite flowers. The blooms are a notable feature, displaying a unique color palette that usually combines shades of violet, blue, and purple with touches of yellow and orange in the center. These vibrant colors create a stunning contrast against the deep green foliage. The leaves of the African daisy are typically lance-shaped and may have slightly serrated edges, contributing to its lush and robust look. The plant often forms a mounded shape and is renowned for its generous flowering, providing a long-lasting display of color that makes it a popular choice for gardens, borders, and containers.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
African Daisy, South African Daisy, Cape Daisy, Blue-Eyed Daisy.
Common names
Osteospermum 'Hopleys'.
ToxicityTo humans
The Cape Daisy does not have a reputation for being toxic to humans. Ingestion of this plant typically does not lead to any severe symptoms of poisoning. As with any non-food plant, individual sensitivities can vary, and some people might experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort if they ingest parts of the plant. However, no significant toxic effects are generally expected from the Cape Daisy.
To pets
The Cape Daisy is not known to be toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. It is not listed among plants that are commonly known to cause poisoning in household pets. However, ingestion of the plant might still cause mild gastrointestinal upset in some animals due to the ingestion of non-food plant matter. Signs might include vomiting or diarrhea, but serious toxicity is not anticipated. If a pet shows adverse symptoms after ingesting this plant, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
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- Attracts pollinators: Osteospermum 'Hopleys', also known as African Daisy, is known to attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, which help with pollination and maintaining a healthy ecosystem.
- Drought tolerance: African Daisy has good drought resistance once established, making it suitable for xeriscaping and water-wise gardens.
- Low maintenance: It requires minimal care once established, making it an easy choice for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Extended blooming season: Osteospermum 'Hopleys' has a long flowering season, providing color and visual interest in the garden throughout spring and summer.
- Versatility in landscaping: This plant is ideal for borders, containers, and as ground cover, providing flexibility in garden design.
- Pest resistance: It is generally resistant to pests, minimizing the need for chemical pesticides.
- Tolerance of poor soil: African Daisy can thrive in less fertile soils, reducing the need for soil amendments and fertilizers.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Osteospermum 'Hopleys', commonly known as African daisy, can be used in educational settings such as schools or workshops to teach about plant hybridization and breeding due to its cultivated variety status.
- The vibrant flowers of the African Daisy can serve as natural dye sources for fabrics, providing a range of colors from pinks to purples depending on the flower's hues.
- African daisies are often used in artistic arrangements and can be a source of inspiration for painters and photographers seeking to capture the beauty of flora.
- These plants can be utilized in sensory gardens because they have a variety of textures and colors that stimulate visual and tactile senses.
- African daisy petals can be used in crafts, such as making bookmarks or pressed flower art, sealing the beauty of the flower in a practical or decorative form.
- The dried flowers of Osteospermum 'Hopleys' can be incorporated into homemade potpourris, contributing a subtle fragrance and bursts of color.
- These plants can act as companion plants in vegetable gardens, possibly helping to deter certain pests with their scent or by attracting beneficial insects.
- The African daisy's distinctive flowers can be used in garnishing and decorating food plates for events, adding an edible ornamental element.
- Landscape designers often use Osteospermum 'Hopleys' to create contrast and focal points in rock gardens due to their structure and flowering habit.
- Osteospermum 'Hopleys' can be incorporated into living walls or vertical gardens, taking advantage of their ability to thrive with minimal soil and adding aesthetic appeal to urban environments.
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- Charm and Beauty: Known commonly as the African Daisy, the Osteospermum 'Hopleys' often symbolizes charm and beauty due to its striking colors and unique petal arrangement, resembling the classic daisy.
- Resilience and Strength: As a plant that thrives in harsh conditions and can bloom vibrantly, the African Daisy is also a symbol of resilience and the ability to endure challenging situations.
- New Beginnings: The daisy family, including the African Daisy, is frequently associated with innocence and fresh starts, making it an appropriate symbol for new beginnings and hope.
- Cheerfulness: With its bright, cheerful flowers, the African Daisy commonly represents cheerfulness and the ability to spread joy to those around it.
WaterThe African Daisy, or Osteospermum 'Hopleys', prefers consistent moisture but should not be overwatered. It is important to water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Generally, this might mean watering once or twice a week, depending on climate conditions such as heat and humidity. When watering, give the plant a thorough soaking so that the water reaches the root zone. Aim to provide about 1 gallon of water per week, adjusting as necessary for rainfall and environmental factors.
LightThe African Daisy thrives in full sun conditions, where it can receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. The best spot for this plant is in a location where it will have unobstructed exposure to sunlight throughout most of the day, as this will promote the healthiest growth and flowering.
TemperatureThe African Daisy performs best in temperatures ranging from 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive minimum temperatures down to about 30 degrees Fahrenheit but may be damaged by frost. The ideal temperature range for this plant is moderate, and it should be protected from extreme cold or heat.
PruningPruning the African Daisy helps to promote bushier growth and more blooms. Prune the plant in early spring before new growth begins by cutting back the stems to about 4 to 6 inches. Throughout the blooming season, deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming and maintain plant appearance.
CleaningAs needed
SoilAfrican Daisy 'Hopleys' thrives in well-draining soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. A mix of two parts potting soil, one part perlite, and one part compost works well to ensure good drainage and fertility. Always ensure the soil is loose and not compacted to facilitate root growth and sufficient aeration.
RepottingAfrican Daisy 'Hopleys' generally requires repotting every two to three years. It's best to repot in the springtime right before the growing season begins. Choose a container that is slightly larger than the previous one to allow for growth.
Humidity & MistingAfrican Daisy 'Hopleys' is tolerant of a range of humidity levels and does well in average outdoor humidity. Indoor, try to maintain moderate humidity levels, but there's no need for misting or special humidity trays.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place African Daisy 'Hopleys' in bright, indirect light inside.
Outdoor
Grow African Daisy 'Hopleys' in full sun for best blooming.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleOsteospermum 'Hopleys', commonly known as African Daisy, begins its life cycle as a seed, which upon germination develops into a seedling with its first true leaves. As it grows into a juvenile plant, it develops a sturdy stem and a robust root system. The African Daisy reaches maturity when it starts to flower, producing distinctive daisy-like blossoms that can be various colors, attracting pollinators that aid in the reproductive process. After pollination occurs, seeds develop, which complete the generative phase of the plant's life cycle. When environmental conditions become unfavorable, such as during extreme cold or excessive heat, the African Daisy may enter a dormant phase, minimizing growth and metabolic activity until conditions improve. Seeds or vegetative parts of the plant can then initiate a new life cycle when conditions become conducive to growth again.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Fall
Osteospermum 'Hopleys', commonly known as African Daisy, is often propagated by cuttings. The best time for taking cuttings is late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. To propagate, a grower should select healthy, non-flowering stems and cut a 3-4 inch (approximately 7.5-10 centimeters) length, just below a leaf node. The lower leaves are then stripped off, and the cut end is dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root growth. The cutting should be planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist but not waterlogged. Placing the pot in a warm area with indirect light helps rooting. Roots typically develop within a few weeks, after which the new African Daisy plants can be transplanted to their final growing location.
