Origin
Osteospermum pterospermum E.Mey. ex DC. forma integrifolium O.Hoffm., commonly known as the trailing African daisy, is a species of flowering plant in the family Asteraceae. It is native to South Africa, particularly in the Western Cape Province.
Common Names
Aside from being called the trailing African daisy, this plant is also known by other common names such as pink-veined African daisy, trailing daisy, trailing cape daisy, and trailing osteospermum.
Uses
Primarily used for ornamental purposes, the trailing African daisy is a popular choice for landscaping and gardening due to its attractive flowers and foliage. It is often used in containers, hanging baskets, and rock gardens where its trailing habit and vibrant colors can cascade over the edges.
Moreover, some species of Osteospermum are medicinal plants, and it is believed that they can help control a variety of diseases like coughs and rheumatism.
General Appearance
The trailing African daisy is a low-growing, spreading plant that can reach a height of about 6 inches (15 cm) and a spread of up to 2 feet (60 cm). Its leaves are dark green and have a toothed margin, with the stems and foliage covered with short, stiff hairs.
The flowers of the trailing African daisy are daisy-like, with petals that can range in color from white, purple, pink, to blue. The center of the flower is usually yellow or black and has a distinctive cone-shaped disc. These flowers bloom from late spring through fall depending on the climate and can attract bees and butterflies.
Light Requirements
Osteospermum pterospermum E.Mey. ex DC. forma integrifolium O.Hoffm. thrives in full sun conditions. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth. Insufficient light can result in weak stems and fewer flowers. In regions with extremely high temperatures, the plant may require some shade during the hottest part of the day to avoid heat stress.
Temperature Requirements
Osteospermum pterospermum E.Mey. ex DC. forma integrifolium O.Hoffm. is a warm-season plant that thrives in temperatures ranging between 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 29°C). The plant can tolerate a minimum temperature of 55°F (12.8°C) but only for short periods. Low temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can cause the plant to develop a yellowish hue, and in severe cases, it may die. High temperatures above 90°F (32°C) can cause heat stress, leading to poor growth and fewer flowers.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-draining, fertile soil for optimal growth. The soil should be loamy and slightly acidic, with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. The plant cannot tolerate waterlogged soil, as it can lead to root rot and other soil-borne diseases. Adding organic matter like compost to the soil can improve soil fertility and water retention capacity. The plant is also sensitive to salt, so avoid planting it in areas with high soil salinity.
Cultivation Methods
Osteospermum pterospermum E.Mey. ex DC. forma integrifolium O.Hoffm. can be propagated with seeds or stem cuttings. For seeds, sow them in a well-draining, fertile soil mix and keep them moist until they germinate. For stem cuttings, take cuttings in the spring or summer, dip them in rooting hormone, and plant them in a mix of perlite and peat moss.
When planting the plant, choose a location with well-draining soil and full sun exposure. Space the plants about 12-18 inches apart to give them enough room to grow.
Watering Needs
Osteospermum pterospermum E.Mey. ex DC. forma integrifolium O.Hoffm. can tolerate drought but prefers to be kept moderately moist. Water the plant deeply once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions and soil moisture. Avoid getting water on the leaves to prevent fungal growth.
Fertilization
Fertilize Osteospermum pterospermum E.Mey. ex DC. forma integrifolium O.Hoffm. with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Use a water-soluble fertilizer, and follow the instructions on the package for the correct application rate. Too much fertilizer can result in leggy growth and fewer flowers.
Pruning
To encourage bushy growth and more blooms, pinch back the tips of the stems in the early spring. Deadhead spent blooms regularly to promote continued flowering and prevent seed formation. Prune back the entire plant in the fall to remove any diseased or damaged branches and prepare it for winter dormancy.
Propagation of Osteospermum Pterospermum E.Mey. ex DC. Forma Integrifolium O. Hoffm.
Osteospermum pterospermum E.Mey. ex DC. forma integrifolium O.Hoffm. can be propagated through various methods, including seed propagation, cuttings, and division.
Seed Propagation
Seeds from the Osteospermum pterospermum E.Mey. ex DC. forma integrifolium O.Hoffm. plant can be collected and sown directly in the soil, or in seed trays indoors prior to planting out. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until germination, which usually occurs within two to three weeks. Once the seedlings have reached a suitable size, they can be transplanted into their final location.
Cuttings
Osteospermum pterospermum E.Mey. ex DC. forma integrifolium O.Hoffm. can be propagated through cuttings taken from the plant. The cutting should be taken from new growth and should be at least 4-6 inches long. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end of the stem into a rooting hormone powder before planting in a well-draining soil mix. The cutting should be kept moist and placed in a protected location until roots have formed, after which it can be transplanted to its final location.
Division
Osteospermum pterospermum E.Mey. ex DC. forma integrifolium O.Hoffm. can also be propagated through division. This involves separating an established plant into smaller sections and transplanting them into their final location. To divide the plant, carefully dig it up, and separate the root ball into sections using a clean, sharp knife. Each section should have a healthy root system and a suitable amount of foliage. Once divided, the smaller sections can be replanted into their final location.
Disease Management
Osteospermum pterospermum E.Mey. ex DC. forma integrifolium O.Hoffm. is generally resistant to many fungal and bacterial diseases. However, it can still be prone to leaf spot, powdery mildew, and verticillium wilt if grown in damp and humid conditions. To prevent these diseases, it is important to provide good air circulation around the plant by ensuring proper spacing during planting. It is also important to avoid overhead watering and instead water at the base of the plant.
If a plant does get infected, it is recommended to remove the affected leaves and dispose of them to prevent spreading the disease. Fungicides and bactericides may be used as a preventative measure, and should be applied according to label instructions.
Pest Management
Osteospermum pterospermum E.Mey. ex DC. forma integrifolium O.Hoffm. can be affected by pests such as aphids and spider mites. These pests can cause damage to the plant by feeding on the leaves, flowers, and stems. In severe cases, this can lead to stunted growth and even death of the plant.
To manage these pests, it is important to regularly inspect the plant for any signs of infestation. If a pest problem is identified, it can be treated by using insecticidal soap, neem oil, or other appropriate insecticides according to label instructions. It is also important to remove any weeds or other debris surrounding the plant, as these can provide a habitat for pests.
