African Daisy Osteospermum 'Whirlygig'
ABOUT
The Osteospermum 'Whirlygig', more commonly known as the African Daisy 'Whirlygig', showcases a unique and vibrant appearance. This captivating variety blooms with daisy-like flowers that exhibit a blend of colors often featuring purple, pink, and blue tones with hints of white and yellow near the center. The flower petals are not just a splash of color; each petal is distinctively spoon-shaped, creating an ornate and frilled look that adds depth and texture to the flower's form. At the heart of the bloom, the disk florets present a contrasting deep blue or purple that draw the eye to the center. The foliage of the African Daisy 'Whirlygig' forms a lush backdrop for its stunning flowers. Leaves are usually a rich green, with a shape that ranges from elongated ovals to spatula-like forms, and edges that can be smooth or slightly toothed. The overall aesthetic of this plant is one of a cheerful, slightly whimsical character, making it a standout in any garden. It's also worth noting the glossy appearance of the leaves, which can catch the sunlight and add a shimmering effect to its setting. Each bloom perches atop its own stalk, which emerges from the dense foliage below. The African Daisy 'Whirlygig' is not just celebrated for its beauty; it's also appreciated for its resilience and the extended period over which it displays its enchanting flowers. As a favorite among gardeners, the 'Whirlygig' variety captivates both in garden beds and as a component of mixed containers, where its colorful and dynamic flowers contribute a touch of whimsy and charm to the plant's surroundings.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
African Daisy, South African Daisy, Cape Daisy, Blue-Eyed Daisy
Common names
Osteospermum ecklonis 'Whirlygig', Dimorphotheca ecklonis 'Whirlygig'.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as African Daisy is not known to be toxic to humans. There are no significant symptoms of poisoning associated with this plant because it is not considered dangerous if accidentally ingested. However, as with any non-food plant, consumption is not advised, and individual allergic reactions are always a possibility.
To pets
The African Daisy is generally considered non-toxic to pets as well. It does not typically cause poisoning in animals such as dogs and cats if they happen to ingest parts of it. Despite its non-toxic nature, it's always best to prevent pets from eating plants, as they can sometimes cause gastrointestinal upset or an allergic reaction in sensitive individuals.
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
9
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Osteospermum 'Whirlygig' adds visual interest to gardens with its vibrant, daisy-like flowers ranging from purple, pink, to white shades.
- Attract Pollinators: The blooms are known to attract bees and butterflies, promoting pollination in the garden.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, Osteospermum 'Whirlygig' is fairly drought-resistant, making it suitable for xeriscaping or low-water gardens.
- Easy to Grow: It is considered easy to care for, requiring minimal maintenance, which is ideal for beginner gardeners.
- Seasonal Color: It can offer extended periods of color in the garden, often blooming from spring through fall.
- Versatile Use: This plant is suitable for garden borders, containers, and as ground cover, providing flexibility in garden design.
- Deer Resistant: It is known to be deer-resistant, helping to prevent damage to gardens 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- Edible decoration: The petals of African daisy can be used to add color to salads or desserts, although they do not have a distinct flavor, they provide an aesthetic touch to dishes.
- Natural dye: The vibrant colors of the African daisy can be used to create natural dyes for textiles or in craft projects, providing a sustainable alternative to synthetic dyes.
- Garden photography: African daisies, with their striking colors and patterns, are ideal subjects for garden photographers looking to capture the beauty of nature.
- Teaching tool: The distinct petal structure and coloration make it a great plant for teaching botany and plant biology, particularly with respect to pollination and flower morphology.
- Eco-friendly confetti: Dried petals of the African daisy can be tossed as a biodegradable alternative to traditional confetti for outdoor celebrations.
- Indicator plant: The African daisy can be used as an indicator plant for garden health, as it thrives in well-balanced soil but may show signs of distress if soil conditions are poor.
- Petal art: The colorful petals can be utilized in art projects, such as pressing for botanical prints or arranging in mandalas.
- Companion planting: African daisies can be planted alongside vegetables and herbs as a companion plant to attract pollinators and beneficial insects to the garden.
- Theme gardens: These plants are excellent choices for creating themed garden areas, such as a rainbow or pastel color scheme, due to their variety of colors.
- Culinary experimentation: While not a typical use, creative chefs may experiment with the petals in new recipes, such as infusing syrups or making candied petals for gourmet dishes.
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- Charisma: Osteospermum 'Whirlygig', commonly known as African Daisy, features a vivid whirl of colors, giving it an enchanting appearance that signifies a magnetic charm or appeal.
- Cheerfulness: The African Daisy's bright and cheerful flowers evoke a sense of joy and positivity, often used to bring a spark of happiness to gardens.
- Resilience: As a plant that thrives in tough conditions, the African Daisy symbolizes the ability to endure and adapt, reflecting resilience in the face of adversity.
- New Beginnings: The opening of its flowers at the start of each day can represent the start of new ventures or the dawn of new ideas.
- Innocence: Often white or soft-colored varieties of African Daisies convey a sense of purity and innocence, akin to the traditional symbolism of daisies.
- Exploration: Named for a flower that hails from southern Africa, the African Daisy can symbolize exploration and the discovery of the unknown.
WaterCape Daisy prefers consistent moisture but does not like being waterlogged. During the active growing season, water deeply once a week, providing about 1 inch of water each time. Adjust the frequency based on weather conditions, watering more often during hot, dry spells and less during cool, wet weather. Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases, and aim to water early in the morning to allow the foliage to dry before evening. It's better to water thoroughly and less frequently, encouraging deeper root growth, rather than little and often.
LightThe Cape Daisy thrives best in full sunlight, where it can receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. It tolerates partial shade, but flowering is often more prolific when the plant is exposed to full sun. An ideal spot would be in a southern-facing garden or on a sunny windowsill if grown indoors.
TemperatureThe Cape Daisy is relatively tolerant but prefers a temperature range of about 50 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive minimum temperatures down to about 30 degrees Fahrenheit, but frost may damage the plant. The ideal growing condition is a consistently mild to warm temperature without extreme changes.
PruningPruning the Cape Daisy helps maintain a compact shape and encourages more blooms. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote continuous flowering. Perform a more thorough pruning in early spring or late autumn, cutting back by one-third to help stimulate fresh growth. Always use clean, sharp pruning shears to make clean cuts.
CleaningAs needed
SoilAfrican Daisy 'Whirlygig' thrives in well-draining soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. A quality mix with loamy or sandy soil amended with compost or peat moss is ideal to provide the necessary nutrients and drainage.
RepottingAfrican Daisies should be repotted every two to three years to refresh the soil and accommodate growth. Choose a pot that's slightly larger than the current one to allow for proper root expansion.
Humidity & MistingAfrican Daisy 'Whirlygig' prefers moderate humidity levels, typical of outdoor conditions; it is tolerant of the humidity found in most homes if grown indoors.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, well-drained soil, and cool temperatures.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-drained soil, protect from extreme cold.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleThe Cape Daisy 'Whirlygig' begins its life cycle as a seed, typically sown in late winter to early spring under cover with warmth for germination. Upon sprouting, the seedling grows into a young plant, developing a rosette of leaves while establishing its root system. As temperatures increase, the plant enters the vegetative stage, where it grows more leaves and stems, preparing for flowering. The reproductive stage sees the Cape Daisy 'Whirlygig' producing vibrant daisy-like flowers in a variety of colors, usually in late spring or early summer, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. After pollination, the flowers produce seeds, completing the cycle, which can be collected and sown for the next generation or allowed to self-sow. The plant may become dormant in winter or die back depending on the climate, with perennials regrowing from the rootstock when conditions improve.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The most popular method of propagating Osteospermum 'Whirlygig', commonly known as African Daisy, is through cuttings. This is typically done in the spring or early summer when the plant's growth is most vigorous. To propagate, a healthy stem cutting about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) long is taken from the plant using a sharp, clean cutting tool. The lower leaves of the cutting are removed, and the cut end is often dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root growth. The cutting is then planted in a well-draining soil mixture and kept in a warm spot with indirect light. Consistent moisture is maintained without overwatering, and in a few weeks, the cutting should develop roots and can eventually be transplanted.
