About

A spreading evergreen perennial, with ovate, slightly toothed green leaves, and bright purple daisy-like flowers with deep purple central discs, from early summer to early autumn.

About the genus

Osteospermum can be annuals, perennials or sub-shrubs, with aromatic, evergreen, simple or lobed leaves and showy daisy-like flowers over a long period from late spring

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH3

Plant details

Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants
ToxicityPets (rabbits, rodents): Harmful if eaten. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants

Care notes

CultivationGrow in light, well-drained soil in a warm, sheltered site. In frost-prone areas, grow as an annual or overwinter in frost-free conditions
PruningDeadhead regularly to prolong flowering
PropagationPropagate by seed, softwood cuttings in late spring, or semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to downy mildews and verticillium wilt