Dimorphotheca sinuata aka African Daisy

Taxonomy

Dimorphotheca sinuata, also known as the glandular Cape marigold, Namaqualand daisy, or orange Namaqualand daisy, is a species of plant that is native to southern Africa but is widely cultivated as an ornamental and has also naturalized in parts of the United States, specifically California, Arizona, and Oregon. This annual plant can grow up to 30 cm (12 inches) in height and produces remarkable large, daisy-like blooms that are yellow or orange with purple markings. It typically grows in places that receive winter rainfall but can also thrive in sandy deserts. Dimorphotheca sinuata flowers early in the spring and requires well-drained, sandy soils and can tolerate drought. Deadheading can help the plant produce the most blossoms.

Common names

African Daisy, Namaqualand Daisy, Sun Marigold

How to care for African Daisy

Difficulty

With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for African Daisy, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.

Water

African Daisy should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

African Daisy loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

African Daisy requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Namaqualand Daisy is always in the right place to thrive.

Dormancy

During the wintertime, it is common for African Daisy plants to go dormant and their growth rate may slow down. Therefore, the amount of waterings should be spaced out more.

Toxicity

Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.

Fertilizer

The African Daisy should be repotted when it has doubled in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing fresh potting soil with all the essential nutrients each year ensures the plant's well-being, eliminating the need for fertilizer. Remember, plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.

Growth-pattern

New growth will sprout from the top of the African Daisy as it grows vertically.


More info:
Wikipedia