Origin
Osteospermum corymbosum L. var. rotundifolium DC., commonly known as round-leaf cape-daisy, is a species of flowering plant in the family Asteraceae. It is native to southern Africa, specifically in Namibia and South Africa.
Common Names
Aside from round-leaf cape-daisy, the plant also goes by the names of Namaqua cape-daisy, purple osteospermum, and bloumagrietjie.
Uses
Osteospermum corymbosum L. var. rotundifolium DC. is commonly grown as an ornamental plant due to its beautiful blooms and attractive foliage. The plant produces showy, daisy-like flowers that come in shades of pink, purple, and white, making it a favorite among gardeners and flower enthusiasts. It is also deer-resistant, making it a great choice for gardens in areas with high deer populations.
The plant's leaves are also said to have medicinal properties. They are used to treat a variety of ailments such as dysentery, wounds, and fever. Additionally, the plant is also known to have insecticidal properties and is used to ward off mosquitoes and other pests.
General Appearance
Osteospermum corymbosum L. var. rotundifolium DC. is a low-growing perennial that can reach a height of up to 24 inches. The plant has a spread of about 18 inches and produces a mound of evergreen foliage with leaves that are oval to round in shape and have a slightly furry texture.
The flowers emerge on slender stalks that rise above the foliage in the spring and summer months. The blooms themselves are about 2 inches in diameter and have a striking center of yellow disc-like florets surrounded by petals that come in various shades of pink, purple, and white. The plant prefers full sun and well-draining soil and is relatively low-maintenance, making it an ideal choice for gardeners of all levels of experience.
Growth Conditions for Osteospermum corymbosum L. var. rotundifolium DC.
Light: Osteospermum corymbosum L. var. rotundifolium DC. requires full sun exposure to partial shade. It grows best in areas with plenty of sunlight but can tolerate some shade.
Temperature: This plant prefers warm temperatures ranging from 60-80°F (15-27°C) during the day and 50-60°F (10-15°C) at night. However, it can also withstand temperatures as low as 40°F (4°C) and as high as 95°F (35°C) for short periods.
Soil: Osteospermum corymbosum L. var. rotundifolium DC. thrives in well-draining soils with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter and should not stay waterlogged for extended periods. This plant can tolerate sandy, loamy, and clayey soils.
Water: This plant requires moderate watering, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause wilting of the leaves.
Fertilizer: Osteospermum corymbosum L. var. rotundifolium DC. is a light feeder and prefers organic fertilizers. It is recommended to fertilize the plant once every two weeks during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer.
Propagation: This plant can be propagated through seeds or vegetative cuttings. Seeds should be sown in well-draining soil in early spring, and cuttings should be taken during the active growing season and rooted in soil or water.
Cultivation Methods
Osteospermum corymbosum L. var. rotundifolium DC. is a relatively easy plant to cultivate. It grows best in well-draining soil, with a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0. The plant prefers full sun exposure, though it will also tolerate some shade. It is important to plant the seedlings in a location that has good air circulation, as this helps to prevent fungal diseases.
If you are growing the plant from seeds, it is advisable to start them indoors, 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost. Once the seedlings are a few inches tall and have developed a few leaves, they can be transplanted outside, following the spacing recommendations on the seed packet.
Watering Needs
During the growing season, Osteospermum corymbosum L. var. rotundifolium DC. needs regular watering to thrive. The plant should be watered at least once a week, although this may vary depending on the climate and weather conditions. It is important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot and other related diseases.
You should water the plant thoroughly, making sure that the water reaches the roots. If you notice that the plant is starting to wilt or the leaves are drooping, it may be an indication that it needs more water. On the other hand, if the soil feels very damp or saturated, you may need to reduce the amount of water you are giving it.
Fertilization
Regular fertilization can help to promote healthy growth and flowering in Osteospermum corymbosum L. var. rotundifolium DC. Plants should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season, using a balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10 or with a fertilizer specially formulated for flowering plants.
It is important not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive leaf growth and reduced flowering. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully when applying fertilizers.
Pruning
Pruning can help to promote bushier growth and increase the number of flowers on the plant. You can prune Osteospermum corymbosum L. var. rotundifolium DC. in early spring, just before new growth appears. Use clean, sharp pruning shears to cut back any dead or damaged stems, as well as any overly long or leggy branches.
You can also pinch back the tips of the stems throughout the growing season, to encourage the development of shorter, more compact growth. This can help to promote additional flowering over time. However, be careful not to pinch back too much growth, as this can also impact overall flowering.
Propagation of Osteospermum Corymbosum L. var. Rotundifolium DC.
Osteospermum corymbosum L. var. Rotundifolium DC. can be propagated by different methods, including:
Seed propagation
Propagation from seeds is the most common method used for Osteospermum corymbosum L. var. Rotundifolium DC. Seeds can be directly sown into well-prepared garden soil at a depth of 2 - 3 mm. For better results, it's advisable to provide some bottom heat of around 20 - 25°C. Germination should take place within 10 to 15 days after sowing. Once the seedlings have grown, they can be transplanted to their desired location.
Cuttings propagation
Osteospermum corymbosum L. var. Rotundifolium DC. can also be propagated by cuttings. This method is useful in propagating large numbers of plants within a short period. The cuttings should be taken in late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing and it is advisable to take the cuttings in the early morning or late evening when it's cooler. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in pots containing sterile peat, vermiculite, or perlite mix. Maintain temperatures of between 20 - 25°C and keep the soil moist until the cuttings root, which should take about 3 - 4 weeks.
Division propagation
The third method to propagate Osteospermum corymbosum L. var. Rotundifolium DC. is by division. This method is preferred for mature plants that have already formed clumps. Gently lift the plant from the ground, brush off the soil from the roots, and then separate the clumps. Ensure that each clump has healthy, vigorous roots. Transplant each clump into the desired location, making sure to water them well.
Disease and Pest Management of Osteospermum corymbosum L. var. rotundifolium DC.
Osteospermum corymbosum L. var. rotundifolium DC. is a beautiful ornamental plant that is grown for its pretty daisy-like flowers that come in shades of purple, pink, and white. However, like all plants, it is susceptible to diseases and pests. Proper disease and pest management is essential to keep the plant healthy and thriving. In this article, we will discuss some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and suggest ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
1. Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that causes a powdery white coating on the leaves. It thrives in warm and humid conditions. To manage powdery mildew, prune infected leaves and spray the plant with a fungicide.
2. Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes black or brown spots on the leaves. It thrives in wet and humid conditions. To manage leaf spot, prune infected leaves and spray the plant with a fungicide.
3. Root rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that causes the roots to rot and the plant to wilt. It thrives in wet and poorly-drained soil. To manage root rot, improve the drainage of the soil and avoid overwatering the plant.
Common Pests
1. Aphids: Aphids are small insects that suck the sap from the leaves and stems. They can cause the leaves to curl and distort. To manage aphids, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
2. Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that suck the sap from the leaves and cause them to turn yellow and fall off. They thrive in warm and dry conditions. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
3. Whiteflies: Whiteflies are small insects that suck the sap from the leaves and cause yellowing and curling. To manage whiteflies, introduce natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings, or spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
By following proper disease and pest management practices, you can keep your Osteospermum corymbosum L. var. rotundifolium DC. healthy and thriving. Regular monitoring of the plant and quick action can prevent the spread of diseases and prevent pests from causing severe damage.
