The gorgeous flowers of Cape daisies are very appealing and look great in either the garden or in containers, but are not ideal garden subjects for many US gardeners as they do not flower well in the heat. They will do well in the spring or fall garden but set flowers at about 50o F. As temperatures stay consistently in the 60s flower initiation slowly decreases and flowering becomes sporadic. The plants are somewhat shrubby and the foliage is attractive so they provide a pleasing presence in the garden during the summer even though flowers are wanting. In autumn, as temperatures fall they may resume flowering until frost. If you can’t resist them, try them, but realize that they are not going to be the flowering machines that petunias and begonias are.
Type: Annual.
Bloom: White, orange, purple, pink, or yellow daisy-like flowers, 2–4” across, in cool weather. Petals may be cupped.
Foliage: Linear and oblong attractive leaves.
Size: 8-18” H x 8-24” W.
Light: Full sun.
Soil: Fertile, light, well drained.
Fertilizer: Apply balanced fertilizer every two weeks.
Care: Deadhead regularly.
Pests and Diseases: None of significance.
Propagation: Cuttings.
Companion plants: Ageratum, million bells, petunias, lantana.
Outstanding Selection: ‘Asti White’(compact, heavy blooming).
Karen Meyers