African Daisy Osteospermum jucundum 'Merriments Joy'
ABOUT
The Osteospermum jucundum 'Merriments Joy', commonly known as African Daisy, is a visually striking plant. This variety features a plentiful display of daisy-like flowers. Each flower boasts a brilliant hue, with petals ranging from a radiant white to a soft lavender, which surround a contrasting dark blue or purple center disk. The petals are often arranged in two or more rows and may exhibit a subtle spoon shape that adds an intriguing dimension to their appearance. The foliage of the African Daisy 'Merriments Joy' is a vibrant green, forming a lush backdrop for the colorful flowers. Leaves are typically lance-shaped and may have a slightly toothed edge, contributing an additional texture to the overall look of the plant. This foliage is held on sturdy stems that support the flower heads well above the leafy base. The presentation of the flowers above the foliage creates a delightful and cheerful display, which makes the African Daisy a favorite among gardeners looking to add a splash of color to their beds or borders. With its eye-catching flowers and pleasing foliage arrangement, 'Merriments Joy' is a standout plant that can brighten any landscape or container garden without referencing its specific dimensions.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
African Daisy, South African Daisy, Sunscape Daisy, Cape Daisy, Blue-Eyed Daisy
Common names
Osteospermum jucundum 'Merriments Joy'.
ToxicityTo humans
The African daisy, commonly known by its botanical name Osteospermum jucundum 'Merriments Joy', is not known to be toxic to humans. There is no widespread evidence to suggest that ingesting any part of this plant causes poisoning or harmful symptoms in people. Therefore, accidental ingestion is not likely to result in serious health consequences. However, as with any non-food plant, individual sensitivities or allergic reactions could still occur, so it is always advisable to avoid eating ornamental plants.
To pets
The African daisy, commonly referred to by its scientific name Osteospermum jucundum 'Merriments Joy', does not have a notable reputation as being toxic to pets either. It is generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs, and there is no prevalent evidence that its ingestion leads to poisoning in pets. As such, if a pet were to ingest parts of this plant, they are unlikely to experience severe health issues. Nonetheless, ingestion of non-food plants can sometimes cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to the novelty and fiber content, so monitoring pets around any plant is a good practice.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Osteospermum, or African Daisy, adds vibrant color and visual interest to gardens and landscapes.
- Drought Tolerance: African Daisies are relatively drought-tolerant once established, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Pollinator Attraction: The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, supporting local ecosystems.
- Low Maintenance: They require minimal upkeep compared to many flowering plants, making them an excellent choice for both novice and expert gardeners.
- Versatility: African Daisies are suitable for borders, containers, hanging baskets, and as ground cover, offering various landscaping uses.
- Seasonal Interest: They typically bloom in spring and summer, providing seasonal color when other plants may not be in flower.
- Fast Growth: African Daisies have a quick growth rate, so they can fill in garden spaces relatively quickly.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The petals of Osteospermum, also known as African daisy, can be used as a natural dye for fabrics and textiles, imparting a subtle color obtained from their pigments.
- African daisy leaves can add a decorative touch to salads when used as an edible garnish, though they are not widely recognized for their flavor.
- The flowers of the African daisy can be pressed and included in floral crafts such as bookmark making, providing a vibrant and lasting embellishment.
- When dried, the blooms of African daisy can be incorporated into potpourris for a light, floral fragrance and a splash of color.
- African daisy can be used in natural photography settings or as part of garden-inspired photo backdrops due to its picturesque blossoms.
- The vibrant flowers of the African daisy can be floated in water to create decorative centerpieces for tables or outdoor garden parties.
- Plant hobbyists have used the seed heads of African daisy as a natural source for seeds in seed swapping communities, sharing plant varieties.
- African daisy can be grown in containers and positioned to cascade over the sides, creating a living sculpture for patio or balcony decor.
- The sturdy stems of African daisy make them suitable for crafting natural wreaths or other botanical art where structure is necessary.
- Children can engage with African daisy plants in educational garden projects, learning about growth cycles and pollination through direct observation.
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- Perseverance - Osteospermum jucundum, commonly known as African Daisy, often blooms even in tough conditions, symbolizing the ability to endure and persist.
- Optimism - With its bright, cheerful flowers, the African Daisy represents a positive outlook and the belief in good outcomes.
- Exotic Beauty - Originating from Africa, this plant brings a sense of the exotic to gardens, symbolizing the beauty and diversity of other cultures.
- Transformation - African Daisies close at night and reopen with the morning sun, symbolizing rebirth and a fresh start each day.
WaterThe African Daisy should be watered deeply but infrequently to encourage a robust root system. It's essential to allow the soil to dry out between waterings, which typically means watering approximately once a week, with about one to two gallons of water per plant, depending on the weather conditions and soil type. During hot, dry periods, the watering frequency may increase, and it's always good to check the top inch of soil for dryness before watering again. Over-watering can lead to root rot, so it's crucial to ensure proper drainage and not let the plant sit in waterlogged soil.
LightAfrican Daisies thrive in full sun, receiving at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day. The best spot for these plants would be in a south-facing garden or on a sunny windowsill where they can soak up plenty of natural light. While they can tolerate some light shade, too much shade will result in fewer blooms and leggy growth.
TemperatureAfrican Daisies prefer warm temperatures between 50°F and 75°F, making them ideal for growth in most temperate regions. They can survive minimum temperatures down to around 30°F, but frost can damage the plant and it should be protected or brought indoors when cold weather threatens. The best condition for their growth is a consistently warm, frost-free environment.
PruningAfrican Daisies benefit from regular deadheading to remove faded flowers, which encourages further blooming and maintains a neat appearance. They should be pruned lightly throughout the blooming season to shape the plant and remove any leggy or overgrown stems. The best time to perform more extensive pruning is in the early spring or after the main flowering has finished to rejuvenate the plant for the next season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilAfrican Daisy prefers a well-draining soil mix with two parts potting soil, one part perlite, and one part compost. The ideal soil pH should range from slightly acidic to neutral, around 5.5 to 7.0.
RepottingAfrican Daisies should typically be repotted every 1 to 2 years to refresh the soil and provide room for growth.
Humidity & MistingAfrican Daisy thrives in moderate humidity levels but is adaptable and can tolerate a wide range from low to high as long as there's good air circulation.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, well-draining soil, and moderate watering.
Outdoor
Needs full sun, well-drained soil, and regular watering.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleOsteospermum jucundum 'Merriments Joy', commonly known as African Daisy, begins its life cycle with seed germination, which requires warm temperatures and well-draining soil. Following germination, the seedling stage is characterized by the growth of the first true leaves after the initial cotyledons emerge. As the plant enters the vegetative stage, it develops a sturdy stem and a fuller array of leaves, preparing for the onset of flowering. During the flowering stage, the African Daisy produces vibrant, daisy-like flowers that attract pollinators and may close at night or during overcast days. After pollination, the plant sets seeds, completing its reproductive cycle; seeds can be collected for planting or left to self-sow. Finally, Osteospermum jucundum 'Merriments Joy' will enter a period of dormancy in colder climates or may die back after flowering in regions unsuitable for its perennial growth habit.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
Osteospermum jucundum 'Merriments Joy', commonly known as African Daisy, is commonly propagated using semi-hardwood cuttings. These cuttings are typically taken in late summer. The process begins by selecting healthy semi-hardwood stems and cutting them into pieces around 3 to 5 inches (about 7.5 to 12.5 centimeters) long. Each cutting should have a few leaves at the top. The bottom of the cuttings is then dipped in rooting hormone to facilitate root development. Next, the cuttings are placed in a well-draining soil mix and kept under high humidity conditions with indirect light. It usually takes a few weeks for the cuttings to root, after which they can be transferred to individual pots and gradually acclimated to outdoor conditions.
