African Daisy-Purple

Plant Type: perennial
Plant Height: 12-24 inches
Spread: 12-24 inches
Flower Color: purple
Sun Exposure: Full Sun

Description:

The African Daisy, specifically in the 'Purple' variety (Osteospermum spp. 'Purple'), is a striking and vibrant perennial plant known for its daisy-like flowers and resilience in various growing conditions. Native to southern Africa, Osteospermum has become a popular choice in gardens worldwide for its colorful blooms and long flowering period. The 'Purple' variety offers a rich, deep purple hue that adds a splash of color to garden beds, containers, and borders.

Growing to about 12 to 24 inches in both height and spread, African Daisy-Purple forms a bushy, mounded shape that is covered in flowers from late spring to fall. Its spoon-shaped petals surround a dark, central disc, creating a striking contrast that is particularly eye-catching. The green, lanceolate leaves provide a lush backdrop for the blooms, enhancing their visual appeal.

Adapted to full sun, the African Daisy-Purple thrives in well-draining soil and is relatively drought-tolerant once established, making it a great choice for sunny spots in the garden. While it is a perennial in its native habitat and in warmer climates, it is often grown as an annual in regions where frost occurs, as it is not frost-tolerant.

In landscaping, the African Daisy-Purple is often used for its ornamental beauty in a variety of settings, including mixed borders, rock gardens, and as a standout container plant. Its ability to bloom profusely with minimal care makes it a favorite among gardeners looking for impactful, low-maintenance additions to their outdoor spaces.

Overall, the African Daisy-Purple is a low-maintenance, vibrant plant ideal for adding color, texture, and interest to sunny areas of the garden. Its adaptability to a range of growing conditions and long blooming season make it a popular choice for gardeners seeking to create beautiful, sustainable, and dynamic garden displays.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): African Daisy-Purple

Planting Guide:

• Location: Full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily)
• Soil: Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil (avoid heavy clay)
• Spacing: Space plants 12-18 inches apart to allow for proper air circulation and room to grow
• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as the root ball, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface
• Support: Typically no support needed for this plant, but may benefit from light staking if grown in windy areas

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly after planting to saturate the root ball and surrounding soil
• Frequency: Water every 2-3 days for the first 2 weeks, depending on weather conditions and soil moisture
• Watering Amount: Aim for about 1 inch of water per session, ensuring deep penetration around the root zone

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: Considered established after 6-8 weeks when the roots are well-extended into the surrounding soil

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water every 7-10 days during the hotter months. Increase watering to every 5-7 days during extreme heat. Provide 1-1.5 inches of water per session.
• Winter: Water every 2-3 weeks, depending on rainfall. During dormancy, reduce watering to prevent root rot.

General Watering Tips:

• Soil Check: Check the soil moisture before watering. Water when the top 2 inches of soil are dry to the touch.
• Avoid Overwatering: Be careful not to overwater, as African Daisies prefer slightly dry conditions and well-drained soil.
• Mulch: Apply a light layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and keep the roots cool, but avoid piling it against the plant’s stem.