African Daisy Osteospermum 'James Elliman'
ABOUT
Osteospermum 'James Elliman', often known as the African Daisy, features a visually striking appearance that makes it a popular choice among garden enthusiasts. This plant boasts daisy-like flowers, characterized by their vibrant purple-pink petals that radiate around a central disc. The disc is typically a deep blue to purple color, providing a beautiful contrast to the petals. The petals are slender and slightly elongated, with smooth edges that can sometimes exhibit a subtle spoon shape, curving upward at the tips. This elegant curvature adds to the flower's charm and distinctive look. The blooms of the African Daisy appear generous and abundant, creating a lovely display of color when the plant is in full bloom. The foliage of the African Daisy is also worth noting. The leaves are typically a fresh, rich green color that serves as a beautiful backdrop to the bright flowers. The leaf shape is lanceolate, with leaves that are somewhat narrow and come to a pointed tip. Their texture can be described as somewhat leathery, with a smooth surface. The contrast of the luscious green leaves and the purple-pink flowers makes the African Daisy an attractive plant for various garden settings. While in bloom, the African Daisy can be expected to contribute significantly to the visual appeal of gardens with its lively colors and charming flower form. Its flowers tend to open with the sun in the morning and close in the late afternoon or evening and on cloudy days, adding an interactive element to its display in the garden space. Overall, Osteospermum 'James Elliman', or the African Daisy, is celebrated for its beautiful coloration, charming flower shape, and pleasing foliage, making it a delightful addition to any space that seeks to include vibrant floral elements.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
African Daisy, South African Daisy, Cape Daisy, Blue-Eyed Daisy
Common names
Osteospermum ecklonis 'James Elliman'.
ToxicityTo humans
Cape daisy is generally considered to be non-toxic to humans and is not known to cause serious symptoms of poisoning. However, as with any plant, individual sensitivities can occur, and ingesting large quantities might lead to gastrointestinal discomfort, such as nausea or vomiting. It is always advisable to avoid consuming parts of ornamental plants due to potential unknown individual reactions or because some plants might have been treated with pesticides or other chemicals that are not intended for human consumption.
To pets
Cape daisy is not known to be toxic to pets, such as dogs and cats. It is not typically listed among plants that pose a risk of serious poisoning to pets. However, ingestion of plant material can sometimes lead to mild gastrointestinal upset in some animals, which might include symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea. As with humans, it's generally a good idea to prevent pets from ingesting ornamental plants, as they could have been treated with products that are not safe for pets, or the animal may have an unexpected sensitivity to an otherwise harmless plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
1 feet 2 inches (35 cm)
Spread
1 feet 8 inches (50 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts pollinators: The Osteospermum 'James Elliman', also known as African Daisy, is attractive to bees and butterflies, which helps aid in the pollination of surrounding plants.
- Drought resistance: Once established, African Daisies are quite drought-tolerant, making them suitable for water-wise gardens.
- Low maintenance: African Daisies require minimal care, only needing occasional watering and deadheading to promote continued blooming.
- Colorful blooms: With its vibrant and colorful flowers, the African Daisy provides a long-lasting display of beauty in gardens and landscapes.
- Versatile planting options: Suitable for borders, rock gardens, and containers, African Daisies are versatile and can be used in various garden designs.
- Seasonal interest: The plant typically blooms from spring through fall, offering extended interest throughout the growing season.
- Fast growth: African Daisies are known for their rapid growth, allowing for quick establishment and coverage in garden spaces.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Osteospermum 'James Elliman', commonly known as African Daisy, can be used in thematic gardens, such as fairy or miniature gardens, due to their size and colorful petals that can resemble a whimsical environment.
- The vivid colors of African Daisy can be employed as a natural dye for fabrics and crafts, offering a sustainable alternative to synthetic dyes.
- African Daisy flowers can be pressed and included in scrapbooking or decoupage projects, preserving their beauty and adding an organic touch to art pieces.
- These flowers can serve as educational tools in botany and horticulture classes to illustrate plant growth habits, flower structure, and pollination.
- African Daisies can be photographed and used in calendars, greeting cards, and other print materials due to their photogenic qualities and variety of colors.
- The petals of African Daisy can be used as a natural confetti at celebrations, providing a biodegradable alternative to plastic confetti.
- As part of a vegetable patch or herb garden, African Daisies can attract beneficial insects that help with the pollination of crops.
- The flowers can be used in potpourri mixtures, contributing a subtle fragrance and vibrant color to the blend.
- African Daisy plants can be given as eco-friendly gifts for gardeners or plant enthusiasts as they are easy to care for and add brightness to any garden.
- The use of African Daisies in art installations and public gardens can help raise awareness about the conservation of plant species and promote biodiversity.
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- Hope: Osteospermum, commonly known as African Daisy, often symbolizes hope due to its bright and cheerful bloom, resembling the sun which is a universal symbol for a new beginning and hope.
- Optimism: The vibrant petals and bold colors of the African Daisy represent a positive outlook and the ability to look on the bright side of life.
- Beauty: The African Daisy, with its exquisite pattern and impressive array of colors, is often associated with natural beauty and the appreciation of it.
- Survival: This plant is known for its hardiness and ability to thrive in less than ideal conditions, representing resilience and the ability to survive and flourish despite challenges.
WaterFor the African Daisy, it is best to water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Generally, this would mean watering once a week with about 1 gallon of water per plant, depending on the weather conditions and soil type. Over-watering can lead to root rot, so it's important to ensure good drainage. During hot, dry periods, you might need to water twice a week, while in cooler, wetter weather, watering might be reduced to every two weeks or less. Always check the soil moisture at a depth of 1-2 inches to determine if the plant needs water.
LightAfrican Daisies thrive in full sun conditions, so place them in a spot where they will receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. They will perform best and produce the most flowers when given ample sunlight; however, in extremely hot climates, providing some afternoon shade can prevent scorching. Avoid deep shade, as this can lead to leggy plants and reduced blooming.
TemperatureAfrican Daisies prefer moderate temperatures and will grow best when daytime temperatures are between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit, with cooler night temperatures. They can survive minimum temperatures down to around 30 degrees Fahrenheit but should be protected from frost. The ideal range for robust growth is within the 50-70 degrees Fahrenheit bracket. Extreme heat above 85 degrees Fahrenheit may stress the plant and cause it to go into dormancy.
PruningPrune the African Daisy to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming throughout the season. During the growing season, you can also cut back leggy stems to maintain the plant's shape. The best time to do a more thorough pruning is in early spring or after the last frost, when new growth begins to appear.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe African Daisy (Osteospermum 'James Elliman') thrives in well-drained, loamy or sandy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 5.5 to 7.5. The best soil mix can be created by combining two parts potting soil, one part perlite, and one part compost to ensure good drainage and provide essential nutrients.
RepottingAfrican Daisies should be repotted every two to three years or when they become root-bound. Over time, the soil degrades and needs refreshing to maintain healthy growth and vibrant blooms.
Humidity & MistingAfrican Daisies prefer moderate humidity levels and do well in typical outdoor conditions. They can tolerate some dryness, but excessive humidity can lead to fungal diseases, so good air circulation is important.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and avoid overwatering.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-draining soil, and shelter from wind.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleThe Osteospermum 'James Elliman', commonly known as African Daisy, begins its life as a seed, which when planted in well-drained soil and given adequate warmth and moisture, germinates into a seedling. With proper sunlight and water, the seedling develops a root system and foliage, entering the vegetative growth phase. As it matures, the African Daisy transitions into the flowering stage, producing vibrant flowers that attract pollinators. Following pollination, the flowers will eventually give way to seed heads, containing seeds that will disperse for reproduction. The plant may enter a period of dormancy, particularly in colder climates, where it behaves as an annual or short-lived perennial. Finally, if the conditions are not favorable for overwintering or in the absence of necessary care, the plant completes its life cycle by dying back, leaving seeds as its legacy to start a new generation.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The African Daisy 'James Elliman' can be effectively propagated through cuttings, a method frequently preferred for this plant due to its simplicity and effectiveness. This process generally takes place during the growing season, ideally in spring or early summer. To propagate the African Daisy, a healthy stem cutting about 4 to 6 inches long (10 to 15 cm) is taken, ensuring that it has a few leaves. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end is dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development. The cutting is then inserted into a well-draining soil mix. It's important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and to place the cutting in a warm environment with indirect sunlight. Roots usually will begin to form within a few weeks, after which the new plant can be gradually acclimated to outdoor conditions if desired.
