Cape marguerite (Osteospermum ecklonis) Flower, Leaf, Care, Uses

Cape marguerite prefers a balanced watering regime; the soil should be kept moist, but not oversaturated, as these plants can have a tendency towards root rot. In most places, about an inch of water per week is sufficient, though this amount may need to be bumped up during particularly hot or dry stretches. Also, new plantings should receive some extra water to help them get established.

Fertilization

Cape marguerite won't need much or any supplemental fertilizer if planted in rich soil. If your soil is poor, however, or if you just want to encourage larger blooms, you can feed these plants with a balanced (10-10-10) liquid or powder mix. You can feed as infrequently as once per year, ideally in the spring, or as often as monthly during peak growing season.

Pruning

Deadhead (or remove) withered flowers after flowering.

Soil

Sand, Loam, Chalky, Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline

Potting Suggestions

Acupuncture point pots or nursery pots are recommended for seedling nursery.

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Cape marguerite

Water

Every week

Sunlight

Full sun

Hardiness Zones

7 to 11

Planting Time

Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer, Fall, Early winter

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Questions About Cape marguerite

Watering

Pruning

Sunlight

Temperature

Fertilizing

What is the best way to water my Cape marguerite?

When watering the Cape marguerite, you should aim to use filtered water that is at room temperature. Filtered water is better for this plant, as tap water can contain particles that are harmful to its health. The reason that the water should be at room temperature or slightly warmer is that the Cape marguerite comes from a warm environment, and cold water can be somewhat of a shock to its system. Also, you should avoid overhead watering for this plant, as it can cause foliage complications. Instead, simply apply your filtered room temperature water to the soil until the soil is entirely soaked. Soaking the soil can be very beneficial for this plant as it moistens the roots and helps them continue to spread through the soil and collect the nutrients they need.

What should I do if I water my Cape marguerite too much or too little?

Both overwatering and underwatering will be detrimental to the health of your Cape marguerite, but overwatering is a far more common issue. When this species receives too much water, its stems and leaves may begin to wilt and turn from green to yellow. Overwatering over a prolonged period may also lead to diseases such as root rot, mold, and mildew, all of which can kill your plant. Underwatering is far less common for the Cape marguerite, as this plant has decent drought tolerance. However, underwatering remains a possibility, and when it occurs, you can expect to find that the leaves of your Cape marguerite have become brittle and brown.

It is crucial that you notice the signs of overwatering as soon as possible when caring for your Cape marguerite. Some of the diseases that arise from overwatering, such as root rot, may not be correctable if you wait too long. If you see early signs of overwatering, you should reduce your watering schedule immediately. You may also want to assess the quality of soil in which your Cape marguerite grows. If you find that the soil drains very poorly, you should replace it immediately with a loose, well-draining potting mix. On the other hand, if you find signs that your Cape marguerite is receiving too little water, all you need to do is water more regularly until those signs have subsided.

How often should I water my Cape marguerite?

If your plant is in a pot. The most precise way to decide whether your Cape marguerite needs water is to plunge your finger into the soil. If you notice that the first two to three inches of soil have become dry, it is time to add some water.

If you grow your Cape marguerite outdoors in the ground, you can use a similar method to test the soil. Again, when you find that the first few inches of soil have dried out, it is time to add water. During the spring and early fall, this method will often lead you to water this plant about once every week. When extremely hot weather arrives, you may need to increase your watering frequency to about twice or more per week. With that said, mature, well-established the Cape marguerite can show an admirable ability to withstand drought.

How much water does my Cape marguerite need?

When it comes time to water your Cape marguerite, you should not be shy about how much water you give. With the first two to three inches of soil dry, this plant will appreciate a long and thorough watering. Supply enough water to soak the soil entirely. The amount of water you add should be enough to cause excess water to flow through the drainage holes at the bottom of your pot. If you don’t see excess water draining from the pot, you have likely underwatered your plant. But do not let the water accumulate inside the soil, which will be very dangerous to the plant as well. Alternatively, a lack of water draining through the pot could indicate poorly draining soils, which is detrimental to the health of this plant and should be avoided. If the plant is outside, 1 inch of rain per week will be sufficient.

How should I water my Cape marguerite at different growth stages?

The water needs of the Cape marguerite can change depending on growth stages as well. For example, when your Cape marguerite is in the first few years of its life, or if you have just transplanted it to a new growing location, you will need to give more water than usual. During both of those stages, your Cape marguerite will put a lot of energy towards sprouting new roots that will then support future growth. For those roots to perform their best, they need a bit more moisture than they would at a more mature phase. After a few seasons, your Cape marguerite will need much less water. Another growth stage in which this plant may need more water is during the bloom period. Flower development can make use of a significant amount of moisture, which is why you might need to give your Cape marguerite more water at this time.

How should I water my Cape marguerite through the seasons?

The Cape marguerite will have its highest water needs during the hottest months of the year. During the height of summer, you may need to give this plant water more than once per week, depending on how fast the soil dries out. The opposite is true during the winter. In winter, your plant will enter a dormant phase, in which it will need far less water than usual. In fact, you may not need to water this plant at all during the winter months. However, if you do water during winter, you should not do so more than about once per month. Watering too much at this time will make it more likely that your Cape marguerite will contract a disease.

What's the difference between watering my Cape marguerite indoors and outdoors?

It is most common to grow the Cape marguerite indoors for any gardener that does not live in temperate and tropical regions. Those gardeners should consider the fact that soil in a container can dry out a bit faster than ground soil. Also, the presence of drying elements such as air conditioning units can cause your Cape marguerite to need water on a more frequent basis as well. if you planted it outside. When that is the case, it’s likely you won’t need to water your Cape marguerite very much at all. If you receive rainfall on a regular basis, that may be enough to keep your plant alive. Alternatively, those who grow this plant inside will need to water it more often, as allowing rainwater to soak the soil will not be an option.

Does my Cape marguerite need to be pruned?

The usual goal for the Cape marguerite is to have it grow as big and full as possible. While the plant doesn’t require consistent trimming, it can benefit by removing old flowers and any damaged, dead, or diseased leaves. You can also trim back the leaves if it is starting to get too big for the pot and space you are keeping it.

When is the best time to prune my Cape marguerite?

Cape marguerite don’t have a winter dormancy cycle at the suitable temperature. With that said, their growth does slow down as the days get shorter, however the leaves don’t die. What does that mean for pruning? It means there’s no specific season where it’s better to prune. Ideally, you will want to wait until the flower blooms before pruning it, which can take about a month after the appearance of the blossom. With deadheading, you’ll want to do this around late spring or when only a few of the blossoms have faded. You should always prune brown or yellow leaves when you notice them. Throughout the growing phase, make sure to pay close attention to any potential diseased leaves and remove these as necessary.

What should I do after pruning my Cape marguerite?

Once you’ve pruned your plant, you should dispose of the stems and leaves either by composting the healthy ones or throwing out the diseased parts. You can also fertilize just before or after pruning, which gives Cape marguerite a little vitamin boost that can provide it the nutrients needed to better protect itself from any nearby pathogens or diseases. You don’t need much after care when you’re done pruning. It might benefit from light watering and some liquid plant food to encourage new blooms and growth.

How can I prune my Cape marguerite during different growth stages?

Chances are you’re not getting the Cape marguerite from seed, which means you’re already getting a mature plant. Since the plant doesn’t have a true dormancy cycle, there are really only two phases: blooming and non-blooming. While the plant is blooming, you should only remove yellow or dead leaves and cut off any brown tips on the leaves. Avoid doing too much pruning during this time as it can stress the plant. Still, you should remove any diseased or dead leaves to keep your plant presentable. The best time to prune is after the blossoms have already wilted. You can remove both the spent blossoms and any old and yellowed leaves at the same time. If you’re noticing a large amount of yellow leaves, you might be overwatering your plant or not giving it enough nutrients. While yellow or brown leaves don’t always mean there’s an issue, if you notice a large amount of leaves shifting colors, it usually means there’s a problem with the plant.

How can I prune my Cape marguerite during different seasons?

As an evergreen plant, Cape marguerite doesn’t have the same cycles as those found in colder areas. The leaves will remain green throughout the year, which is one of the many reasons it is a popular houseplant. If you want to deadhead, you should do so after the blossoms have already wilted. Throughout the growing phase, make sure to pay close attention to any potential diseased leaves and remove these as necessary.

Are there any instructions for pruning my Cape marguerite?

How you prune the Cape marguerite will depend on whether you’re performing general care or deadheading. For general care, simply cut off the blossoms that have already died. Make sure to get as close to the base as possible and snip at a 45-degree angle. Repeat this for all stalks with wilting blooms. After that, trim back any outer leaves that are old and yellowing. If you simply want to thin the plant out, start with the outermost leaf and work your way in. Avoid removing more than 30 percent of the leaves at once. Throughout the growing phase, make sure to pay close attention to any potential diseased leaves and remove these as necessary.

What type of sunlight does Cape marguerite need?

Cape marguerite needs full sun every day, and these plants rely on a minimum of six hours of sunlight to keep their leaves, roots, and blooms in a healthy state. Even though most perennials need six hours of sunlight a day, plants like the Orange Daylily or Giant Coreopsis could live off less sun for a minimum of three hours daily. Even though these perennial flowering plants can live with only three hours of direct sunlight, they won't be able to thrive like they would in sunnier conditions.

Can sunlight damage Cape marguerite? How to protect Cape marguerite from the sun and heat damage?

The few Perennial Flowering Plants that don't like excessive heat in warm climates might react poorly to too much sun if they have heat damage. These plants may wilt or dry out from too much sun and may also develop growth issues if they're regularly in the sun during the most intense heat of the day. Some plants don't need protection from the light afternoon sun, but those that are harmed by intense afternoon exposure should be provided some shade in warmer climates. Gardeners could give these plants plenty of shade by planting them in spots that don't receive direct heat during the afternoon, like under trees or behind bushes.

Should I protect Cape marguerite from sun exposure?

While many perennial plants need plenty of sun to bloom to their fullest extent, some of them benefit from less sun in warmer climates. For example, people who live in hotter climates might want to provide shade for their flowering perennials in the hot afternoon sun, and this is even more true for months in the summer.

Even though some perennial flowering plants will benefit from partially shaded in the hottest climates, plants like the Giant Coreopsis aren't intimidated by too much sun. They might sit outside in the full sun in hot weather and still thrive.

What will happen if Cape marguerite gets inadequate sunlight?

If you're growing Cape marguerite and you aren't getting enough sunlight, you'll notice signs of inadequate requirements in your plants. Most plants won't produce as many blooms as they would if they had full sun exposure. Some plants will develop dry spots on their leaves, but most of these plants will still bloom in the inadequate sun. Even though they bloom, the flowers will be smaller and less full.

Does Cape marguerite need special care about sunlight during its different growth stages?

Cape marguerite is great flowers in gardens and will have optimum blooming if it gets six hours of sunlight a day minimum. Sometimes, flowers stay fresh longer if they're partially shaded during the really hot parts of the day. When Cape marguerite is young, gardeners want to ensure their younger plants are getting plenty of sunlight but don't have to endure intense heat during the afternoon sunlight. If you have a fully mature plant, provide it with plenty of sun so it may keep up its growth properly.

How much light does Cape marguerite need for photosynthesis?

Cape marguerite will need a minimum of six hours of light to best support their photosynthesis cycles. These flowering plants need the sun to help their foliage and blooms grow. However, certain perennial flowering plants like the Giant Coreopsis might need anywhere from eight to twelve hours of full sun a day to maintain their large flowers and healthy foliage.

How much light should Cape marguerite get per day to grow healthily?

If you want your Cape marguerite to grow healthy and bloom as much as possible during its blooming season, you should try to give your plant six hours of direct sunlight. Some perennial plants might even do more sunlight and could sit in the sun for up to twelve hours, depending on the heat in the area and the general environment. Plants like the Red Hot Poker and Giant Coreopsis thrive in much hotter climates and might sit in all types of strong sunlight.

Some home gardeners have to use grow lights because their spaces don't allow for tons of outdoor sunlight. Most perennials could grow happily in grow lights, but they will need anywhere from eight to fourteen hours of artificial light to stay strong since these lights don't have as much power as the sun.

What is the optimal temperature for Cape marguerite?

The best temperature for Cape marguerite depends on the time of year. There are two primary seasons to discuss for temperature: the growing season, and the dormancy season. During the growing season, once Cape marguerite has begun to sprout, the ideal temperature range should be anywhere from 65~80℉(18~27℃). Any colder than 15℉(-10℃), and the plant will suffer; its leaves may brown and wilt, but if this is a short cold snap, then Cape marguerite may be able to survive with some help.

During the warmer parts of the year, Cape marguerite will need to be similarly protected from temperatures that are too high. 95-105℉ (35-40℃) is the top of this plant’s temperature range, and anything above that will compromise the integrity of the foliage and blooms of Cape marguerite. Hotter temperatures can cause wilting, drooping, and even sunburn on the leaves, which can be difficult for Cape marguerite to recover from. There are quite a few ways to combat this issue that are quick and easy!

Temperature requirements for first year or seedling Cape marguerite

If this is the first year of your Cape marguerite outside as a new plant, then it may need a little extra tending during the coldest months of the year. Not only can frost more severely damage a first-year Cape marguerite, but it can also prevent it from growing back as a healthy plant come spring. This plant needs to be kept at 40℉(5℃) or above when they’re not yet established, which can be done either by bringing your Cape marguerite inside for a month or two, or putting up mulch or fabric barriers that protect from frost damage.

It’s also a good idea to plant Cape marguerite in a shadier spot during the first year or two, as smaller and weaker plants have a more difficult time maintaining their own temperatures in the heat. First-year Cape marguerite should receive no more than five hours of direct sunlight per day, particularly if the ambient daytime temperature gets above 80℉(27℃). Shadecloth and frequent watering or misting are the keys to summer heat control.

How can I protect Cape marguerite from extreme temperatures?

If cold temperatures (below 15℉(-10℃)) do occur during the growing season, there are a few measures you can take to help protect Cape marguerite from frost or cold damage. If you’re growing Cape marguerite in a container, then the container can simply be brought inside in bright, indirect light until the temperatures rise up over the lower threshold again. Another option that’s better suited for ground-planted Cape marguerite is to use mulch or horticultural fabric to create an insulated barrier around the plant, which will protect the plant from frost and cold wind.

For temperatures that are hotter than 80℉(27℃) in the shade during the day, be careful to only expose Cape marguerite to six hours or less of sunlight per day, preferably in the morning hours. Putting up shade cloth, or a fine plastic mesh, can help reduce the amount of direct sunlight that hits the plant during the hottest parts of the day. You can also install a misting system that allows for a slow release of cooling mist around the base of the plant during the day to lower ground temperatures.

Dormant season temperature recommendations for Cape marguerite

During the cold winter months, Cape marguerite needs a certain measure of cold in order to stay in dormancy until it’s time to sprout. Sprouting too early, that is before the danger of the last frost has passed, can be fatal to Cape marguerite, especially if it’s already had a head start when the frost hits. Winter temperatures should ideally stay below 32℉(0℃), but if they get up to 40℉(5℃), everything will be just fine.

An unexpected warm spell during the cold months, which can happen in more temperate climates like woodland rainforests, can trigger a premature sprout from Cape marguerite. In this case, if there’s still imminent danger of frost, you may want to try covering it with clear plastic on stakes so that the cold has less of a chance of damaging the new sprout. This setup can be removed when the danger of frost has passed. Occasionally, Cape marguerite will be able to resprout at the correct time without any help, but this method increases the chances of a successful second sprouting.

Why do I need to fertilize my Cape marguerite?

Fertilization is important to the Cape marguerite for several general reasons. Mainly, fertilization helps Cape marguerite and other plants by providing key nutrients that help the plant grow both above and below ground. However, the overall fertilization needs for a Cape marguerite are relatively low.

At times, a Cape marguerite may survive well without fertilization. However, annual fertilization is can be very beneficial to the Cape marguerite, as it will help keep the plant alive and may also encourage your Cape marguerite to create better flowers that last for longer. As such, those interested in helping their Cape marguerite look its best should keep up with annual fertilization.

When is the best time to fertilize my Cape marguerite?

The ideal time to fertilize a Cape marguerite is in the late winter to early spring. During that time, your Cape marguerite will be exiting its dormant phase and entering a phase of active growth. Fertilization at this time allows the plant to get off to a great start for the season by encouraging healthy growth.

While it is generally most advantageous to fertilize a Cape marguerite during the early spring, it is also permissible to fertilize a Cape marguerite during the fall too. However, summer and winter remain the seasons in which it is not a good idea to feed a Cape marguerite.

When should I avoid fertilizing my Cape marguerite?

You should not fertilize your Cape marguerite during any time of the year except during the late winter and early spring. The low fertilization needs of this plant allow a single annual feeding to suffice. Continuing to fertilize throughout spring, summer, and fall can easily lead to overfertilization and all of the complications that can come with it. The only exception is if you did not fertilize in spring, which means that it is permissible to feed this plant in fall.

Along with refraining from fertilizing for most of the growing season, there is also no reason to fertilize this plant during the winter. In winter, the Cape marguerite will be in a dormant growth phase, meaning that it does not put forth new growth. With that being the case, fertilization during most of the winter is not advisable.

What type of fertilizer does my Cape marguerite need?

Nearly any kind of general-purpose fertilizer with a balanced amount of the three main plant nutrients will work well for a Cape marguerite. However, there are a few specific nutrient blends that can be even more beneficial. For instance, many gardeners follow the belief that higher volumes of phosphorus make for stronger roots and better flowers. Since Cape marguerite is a flowering plant, applying a phosphorus-rich fertilizer may be the best approach.

You can use a fertilizer that comes in a granular form or a liquid form as long as there are plenty of nutrients present. Outside of manufactured fertilizers, you can also use more organic means to improve the soil for your Cape marguerite. Mainly, compost, manure, and similar materials can go a long way towards creating a healthy growing medium for your Cape marguerite.

How do I fertilize my Cape marguerite?

The most common way to fertilize a Cape marguerite is to apply a granular or pellet fertilizer to the soil around your plant. Remember that the ideal time to fertilize is as the plant is exiting its winter dormant growth phase and entering a phase of active growth. In early spring, wait until the plant begins to send shoots through the soil, and then apply your fertilizer.

Some people may choose to use a liquid fertilizer instead of a granular one. In that case, you should dilute the fertilizer with water before applying it. Regardless of whether you use granular or liquid fertilizer, it is always best to moisten the soil before, during, and after you apply fertilizer.

What happens if I fertilize my Cape marguerite too much?

As you care for your Cape marguerite, recall that this plant does not need a lot of fertilizer each year and will begin to suffer if it receives too much. Firstly, any overfertilized plant runs the risk of fertilizer burn, a condition in which excessive amounts of fertilizer draw nutrients and moisture out of the plant's roots, causing its decline.

Also, overfertilizing a Cape marguerite is also a way of weakening your plant and making disease far more likely. There is also a potential that overfertilization could cause your Cape marguerite to flower less or not at all, which is a significant detriment considering the blooms of this plant are what make it so valuable and sought after by so many gardeners.

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Feng shui direction

Southwest

Cape marguerite, has a unique potential for enhancing positive energy in the home. Its vibrant colors and delicate petals represent growth and vitality, making it a suitable addition for the Southwest facing direction. This is due to the fact that the Southwest is associated with relationships and love, two elements that can benefit from the harmony and balance exuded by cape marguerite. Keep in mind that Feng Shui interpretations and effects may vary.

Water

Every week

Cape marguerite prefers well-draining soil with moderate moisture, as it hails from semi-arid environments. It's drought-tolerant but benefits from consistent watering, particularly during lengthy dry spells. Adjustments may be required for seasonal variations and rain patterns.

Lighting

Full sun

The cape marguerite thrives best when exposed generously to the sun, which contributes to its robust growth. Though it shows resilience to lesser sunlit places, it extracts maximum vitality from substantial sun exposure. Its origins in sunny habitats underly this preference. Overexposure can lead to stress, while limited light may inhibit flowering and growth.

Temperature

-10 to 35 ℃

Cape marguerite thrives in its native growth environment with specific temperature requirements. It prefers temperatures ranging from 15 to 38 °C (59 to 100.4 °F). As a temperate woody plant, it adapts well to varying climates. Temperature adjustments may be necessary during different seasons. Providing protection from extreme cold and ensuring proper ventilation in cooler periods, while offering shade and adequate watering in hotter seasons, contributes to its optimal growth and vitality.

Transplant

12-18 inches

Transplant cape marguerite ideally in the prime of early to mid-spring when weather conditions promote strong growth. Choose a spot with full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. Perform any transplanting during cooler parts of the day to reduce stress on the plant. Ensure ample water and care post-transplant for best results.

Pollination

Normal

The vibrant cape marguerite illuminates gardens and beckons a flurry of bees and butterflies, its primary pollinators. Showcasing a remarkable display of pollinator attractants such as vivid coloration and sweet nectar, cape marguerite employs entomophily, a form of pollination via insects. This fascinating interaction primarily unfolds during daylight hours, tagging along with insects' active periods.

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

Common Pests & Diseases

Common issues for Cape marguerite based on 10 million real cases

Flower withering

Flowers may dry out due to a sudden change in environment or because the plant has completed its normal flowering period.

Solutions: If flower withering is a natural progression due to age, there is nothing that can be done to slow or stop the process. Once hormones within the plant begin the process of senescence, it’s irreversible. For lack of water, immediately water the plant using room temperature rainwater, bottled spring water, or filtered tap water. Water container plants until excess water drains out the bottom; water in-ground plants until the soil is soaked but there isn’t standing water on the surface. In the event of nutritional deficiencies, the best solution is to use a granular or water-soluble liquid fertilizer, and apply it to the soil at about half the recommended dosage. Keep it off the leaves and make sure granular products are watered into the soil well. If the plant is infected with a bacterial or fungal pathogen, there is no course of treatment that cures the diseased plants. The best solution is to remove the infected plants and dispose of the plant material off-site. Do not put in a compost pile.

Wilting after blooming

Flowers may wither for a variety of reasons.

Solutions: Check the soil or potting medium. Coarse textures can allow water to drain too rapidly, preventing the plant from taking up enough. If the soil and roots seem very dry, add sphagnum moss or other mediums that hold water. Water according to recommendations for each plant's species. Low humidity can be corrected by misting the plant regularly or placing it near a humidifier. Keeping it near other plants helps, too. Keep the environment consistent in terms of temperature, humidity, and lighting. Keep it away from vents, heaters, and air conditioners, and avoid moving it to locations where it will experience a temperature shock. Hot, dry heat, and cold drafts are problematic for many plants. Especially if the plant is outside, it could be experiencing heat or light stress. Try moving it to a shadier location.

Brown spot

This infection can cause brown spots or patches to appear on the plant.

Solutions: In minor cases of brown spot, there isn’t any need to treat the disease. However, if much of the foliage is affected and defoliation occurs, the plant will benefit from getting rid of the infection. It is recommended to start by applying organic treatment options, working up to the more potent synthetic, chemical fungicides if necessary. Organic options won’t kill the fungus, but will prevent it from spreading. Dissolve ½ teaspoon of baking soda and one teaspoon of liquid soap in a gallon of water. Using a spray bottle, spray on tops and bottoms of leaves until the mixture drips off. Repeat every two weeks until existing spots stop enlarging and new spots no longer appear. Spray a copper-based fungicidal soap on the leaves, coating the top and bottom leaf surfaces. Reapply as directed on the product label. Copper penetrates the leaf surface and prevents germination of spores so the fungus cannot spread. Apply an all-purpose fungicide to the entire plant, following the label instructions carefully.

Underwatering

Leaves may wilt for a variety of reasons.

Solutions: The easiest (and most obvious) way to address underwatering is to fully hydrate the plant. However, this must be done carefully. A common mistake that many gardeners make is to douse their underwatered plants with water. This can overwhelm the roots of the plant and shock its system, something that can be even more damaging than the lack of water to begin with. Instead, water thoroughly and slowly, taking breaks to let the water slowly saturate through the soil to get to the roots. Use room temperature water, as cold water might be too much of a shock. In the future, shorten the time between waterings. A good rule of thumb is to check the soil around each plant daily. If it’s dry to at least two inches down, it’s time to water. If a container plant is repeatedly drying out very quickly, repotting into a slower-draining container might be a good idea, too.

Aged yellow and dry

Natural aging can cause leaves to turn yellow and dry out.

Solutions: If the yellowing and drying of leaves and flowers is a natural progression due to age, nothing can be done to slow or stop the process. Once hormones within the plant begin the process of senescence, it’s irreversible.

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Distribution Map

Habitat

Freeways, Banks, Bluffs

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

More Info

Plant Type

Herb

Flower Color

White

Purple

Blue

Red

Bloom Time

Mid spring, Late spring, Summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Leaf Color

Green

Silver

Name story

Blue and white daisybush

The flowers of this plant look particularly like Daisy flowers, but its colors are a lot more unique than daisies. The rays are white above and reddish-blue below. The disc is dark blue or purple, so it's called blue and white daisybush.

Symbolism

Silence, purity, innocence

Usages

Garden Use

Cape marguerite is good for planting in garden flowerbeds and borders, particularly those without a lot of space. Its dwarf size and bright blooms make it a popular choice for cottage gardens, as does its long blooming period. Pansies and Sweet alyssum will do well planted in the same beds.

Scientific Classification

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Family

Daisy

Genus

Daisybushes

Species

Cape marguerite

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Garden mum is a Chinese native that has been cultivated as a medicinal and decorative plant for over 2000 years. Today, it is a gardening and florist favorite all over the world. Chrysanthemum × morifolium is a bushy perennial with dark-green leaves and numerous compact flower heads that come in a wide variety of colors. In English, it is affectionately known as “Mum.”

Spring

Garden mum is widely planted in courtyards and also used as flower arrangements. The leaves of annual garden mum tend to be thin with shallow tine cracks, making the leaves closer to a strip shape. Perennial garden mum has leaves with deep tine cracks and is darker in color, with smaller flowers and better hardiness.

Sweet osmanthus

Sweet osmanthus (Osmanthus fragrans) is a large evergreen flowering shrub. Sweet osmanthus's small white and orange flowers smell like apricots. This species is also referred to as by the Fragrant Tea Olive.

Summer

Grown as an evergreen shrub or a small tree, the sweet osmanthus is a slow-growing and relatively compact plant, making it perfect for balconies and patios. Many also choose to plant their sweet osmanthus near an outdoor seating area or a window, growing it as a dense shrub to make the most of its beautiful scent. However, the plant works well as a hedge too, providing a wall of fragrance during its flowering season. It grows to a variety of heights, making it extremely versatile - while some can soar up to 25 m tall, there are also dwarf varieties available that are perfect for containers., A hardy plant that is easy to look after and requires very little maintenance, the white flowers of the sweet osmanthus is complemented by glossy foliage that looks like holly (but isn't spiky), which is why the plant is often associated with the festive period.

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Most Common Shrub

Plant Collection Most Common Shrub Laurustinus See More Laurustinus (Viburnum tinus) is a flowering shrub native to the Mediterranean region. It is cultivated as an ornamental plant and it often adorns winter gardens. When little else is growing during cold days of winter, Laurustinus produces numerous clusters of tiny white flowers. Add to My GardenContinue reading “Most Common Shrub”

Most Common Herb

Plant Collection Most Common Herb Fragrant plantain lily See More The trademark feature of Asia-native plantain lilies is the numerous glossy oval leaves with deep parallel veins. The Fragrant plantain lily is additionally decorated with strongly fragrant, trumpet-shaped, large white flowers, which are unique in the genus. Hosta plantaginea is one of the favorite cultivatedContinue reading “Most Common Herb”

Plant Collection Best Perennial Plant to Grow Orange daylily See More The Orange daylily is a perennial plant known for its captivating lily-like blooms. Its natural habitats are meadows and forests, but it is also a common garden plant in temperate regions around the world. Each individual flower lasts only a day, but the plantContinue reading “Best Perennial Plant to Grow”

Plant Collection Best Perennial Plant to Grow China rose See More The China rose (Rosa chinensis) is a Southwest China native. The plant has been cultivated for so long that it has become hard to tell the difference between wild and cultivated varieties. With medium-sized clusters of flowers and a long blooming season, it isContinue reading “Best Perennial Plant to Grow”

Deadhead (or remove) withered flowers after flowering.

Most Common Shrub

Plant Collection Most Common Shrub China rose See More The China rose (Rosa chinensis) is a Southwest China native. The plant has been cultivated for so long that it has become hard to tell the difference between wild and cultivated varieties. With medium-sized clusters of flowers and a long blooming season, it is easy toContinue reading “Most Common Shrub”

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Add to My Garden

Cape marguerite

Osteospermum ecklonis

Also known as: Star of the veldt, Sundays river daisy

Osteospermum ecklonis, commonly known as cape marguerite, is an evergreen, perennial small shrub with typical daisy-shaped white or purple flowers. It is cultivated as an ornamental in containers and borders. Flowers of this lovely plant are often visited by bees and other pollinators.

Water

Every week

Sunlight

Full sun

Care Guide for Cape marguerite

Water

Fertilization

Pruning

Soil

Sand, Loam, Chalky, Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline

Potting Suggestions

Acupuncture point pots or nursery pots are recommended for seedling nursery.

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Questions About Cape marguerite

Watering

Pruning

Sunlight

Temperature

Fertilizing

What is the best way to water my Cape marguerite?

What should I do if I water my Cape marguerite too much or too little?

How often should I water my Cape marguerite?

How much water does my Cape marguerite need?

How should I water my Cape marguerite at different growth stages?

How should I water my Cape marguerite through the seasons?

What's the difference between watering my Cape marguerite indoors and outdoors?

Does my Cape marguerite need to be pruned?

When is the best time to prune my Cape marguerite?

What should I do after pruning my Cape marguerite?

How can I prune my Cape marguerite during different growth stages?

How can I prune my Cape marguerite during different seasons?

Are there any instructions for pruning my Cape marguerite?

What type of sunlight does Cape marguerite need?

Can sunlight damage Cape marguerite? How to protect Cape marguerite from the sun and heat damage?

Should I protect Cape marguerite from sun exposure?

What will happen if Cape marguerite gets inadequate sunlight?

Does Cape marguerite need special care about sunlight during its different growth stages?

How much light does Cape marguerite need for photosynthesis?

How much light should Cape marguerite get per day to grow healthily?

What is the optimal temperature for Cape marguerite?

Temperature requirements for first year or seedling Cape marguerite

How can I protect Cape marguerite from extreme temperatures?

Dormant season temperature recommendations for Cape marguerite

Why do I need to fertilize my Cape marguerite?

When is the best time to fertilize my Cape marguerite?

When should I avoid fertilizing my Cape marguerite?

What type of fertilizer does my Cape marguerite need?

How do I fertilize my Cape marguerite?

What happens if I fertilize my Cape marguerite too much?

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More About How-Tos

Common Pests & Diseases

Common issues for Cape marguerite based on 10 million real cases

Flower withering

Flowers may dry out due to a sudden change in environment or because the plant has completed its normal flowering period.

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Wilting after blooming

Flowers may wither for a variety of reasons.

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Brown spot

This infection can cause brown spots or patches to appear on the plant.

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Underwatering

Leaves may wilt for a variety of reasons.

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Aged yellow and dry

Natural aging can cause leaves to turn yellow and dry out.

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Distribution Map

Habitat

Freeways, Banks, Bluffs

Map

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

More Info

Plant Type

Herb

Flower Color

White

Purple

Blue

Red

Bloom Time

Mid spring, Late spring, Summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Leaf Color

Green

Silver

Name story

Blue and white daisybush

Symbolism

Silence, purity, innocence

Usages

Garden Use

Scientific Classification

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

Family

Daisy

Genus

Daisybushes

Species

Cape marguerite

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Related Plants

Queen of the night

Epiphyllum oxypetalum

Chrysanthemum × morifolium

# Useful Tips