African daisies (Osteospermum spp.) look a lot like common daisies, with petals radiating around a center disk. They are even members of the Asteraceae family, along with Shasta daisies and zinnias.
But, their vivid coloring is not at all like the classic daisy. African daisies come in a variety of stunning shades including white, cream, pink, yellow, purple, and blue.
These flowers are best planted in the spring after the threat of frost has passed, usually at around 25 degrees Fahrenheit. While African daisies can survive a surprise frost, they cannot tolerate repeated frosts.
African daisies have a fairly quick growth rate, blooming about two months after sprouting from seeds. Reliably hardy in zones 10 to 11, these tender perennials are planted as annuals in other climate zones. On average, African daises live 2 to 3 years as perennials.
African daisies, also known scientifically as osteospermum, are absolutely gorgeous flowers that can add vibrant pops of color to any garden or landscape. Their daisy-like blooms come in a diverse range of captivating hues like purple, pink, orange, yellow, white and more. One of the most important considerations when selecting these beauties for your own garden is the size of the blooms. Understanding the different flower sizes available will help you pick the perfect African daisies to match your gardening goals and space. In this article, we’ll explore the various sizes of African daisy blooms and provide helpful tips on choosing the right size for your needs.
An Overview of African Daisy Flower Sizes
African daisies can have petite, dainty flowers or big bold blooms depending on the particular cultivar. Flower sizes typically range from about 1 to 5 inches in diameter when fully open. The diameter of the bloom is measured across the face of the flower from petal tip to petal tip.
Smaller varieties generally produce blooms around 1-2 inches across. Medium-sized flowers are usually 2-3 inches in diameter. Large flowered varieties can have massive blooms measuring 4-5 inches or more!
The dimensions of the flower can dramatically impact the look and feel of the plant in your garden. So it’s smart to think about size when picking your African daisies.
Factors to Consider When Selecting Flower Size
Here are some top tips to help you determine the right African daisy flower size for your specific needs
Take Stock of Your Garden Size
If you have a petite garden space, compact African daisy varieties with smaller blooms are probably best. The dainty flowers will be more proportionate to a smaller area. Giant blooms might look oversized and overwhelm the space.
Complement Other Plants
Look at the other plants in your garden and envision how the African daisies will blend in. Aim for cohesion in sizes and shapes. For example, if you already have larger ornamental grasses or bushes, go for African daisies with bigger blooms to match the scale. Or if you have lots of delicate flowers, petit daisies can complement nicely.
Personal Preference
At the end of the day, choose what makes you happiest! If you simply adore the look of sizable showstopper blooms, then opt for large African daisies. Or if diminutive blooms are more your style, petite varieties will bring you joy.
Maintenance Requirements
Larger blooms typically need a bit more care to look their best, like staking or frequent deadheading. So take your willingness to nurture the flowers into account. Lower maintenance gardeners may prefer smaller blooms.
Popular Varieties in Different Sizes
To give you an idea of the range of sizes, here are some top African daisy varieties to consider:
Small Flowers
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Osteospermum ‘Serenity Bronze’ – Vibrant bronze and purple 1-2 inch blooms
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Osteospermum ‘Voltage Yellow’ – Cheery yellow 1-2 inch flowers
Medium Flowers
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Osteospermum ‘Purple Sun’ – Lavender 2-3 inch blooms with white centers
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Osteospermum ‘Lemon Symphony’ – Bright lemon yellow 2-3 inch flowers
Large Flowers
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Osteospermum ‘Akila Grand Canyon Mix’ – Striking, multicolored 4-5 inch blooms
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Osteospermum ‘Serenity Rose Magic’ – Elegant 4-5 inch pink and white flowers
There are so many stunning varieties out there in a spectrum of sizes. Have fun picking your favorites for a dazzling flower display!
A Few Final Tips on African Daisy Sizes
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Look for heat tolerant varieties if you live in a hot climate. Compact flowers generally hold up better.
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Deadhead faithfully to encourage continuous blooms.
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Give your African daisies plenty of sun and well-drained soil for the best floral show.
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Fertilize regularly to fuel plentiful blooms.
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Protect from frost, as it can damage the flowers.
Finding the Perfect Bloom Size for You
When planning your African daisy garden, carefully considering the size of the flowers is crucial to create a cohesive, vibrant space you’ll love. Evaluate your garden dimensions, the plants you already have, your personal preferences, and required care. Then choose from the many varieties out there sporting different sized blooms. Whether you have your heart set on a bold mass of 4-5 inch flowers or prefer an intimate patch of soft 1-2 inch blooms, there’s an African daisy to fit your vision. With the right selection, you’ll be rewarded with a jaw-dropping floral display all season long.
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How to Grow African Daisy From Seeds
The hybrids sold in garden centers are usually not readily available as seeds, but you may be able to find seeds for some of the pure species varieties of African daisy, such as Osteospermum ecklonis. Heres how to start the plants from seeds:
- About eight to 10 weeks before the last winter/spring frost, sow the seeds directly on the surface of a pot filled with ordinary potting mix. Very lightly cover the seeds (light is necessary for the seeds to germinate).
- Keep the seeds moist until they germinate.
- Grow the seedlings in bright indirect light until outdoor planting time.
- Plants started indoors should be hardened off for two full weeks before outdoor planting. Pinch back the seedlings immediately after planting to encourage bushier growth.
Light
African daisies bloom best in full sun. They can tolerate partial shade, but this will likely cause them to produce fewer flowers. The blooms generally open in response to light and close at night and during overcast weather. However, some newer cultivars, including 4D Pink, 4D Silver, and 4D Berry, remain open at night.
AFRICAN DAISY (Clumping) | Osteospermum | Multiple Colors Available
FAQ
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