Cape daisy (Osteospermum leptolobum)
Care, watering, light and tips for Cape daisy on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Asteraceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 0–35 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Cape daisy
Osteospermum leptolobum, commonly known as gousbos, is a perennial plant belonging to the Asteraceae family, native to South Africa. It is characterized by its delicate, daisy-like flowers, often in shades of white or pink with yellow centers. It is ideal for rock gardens, path borders, or containers, adding a wild and charming touch.
Native range
South Africa
Care tips
It thrives in full sun for abundant flowering, though it tolerates some partial shade. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry out between waterings to avoid waterlogging, to which it is very sensitive. Use a well-draining, sandy substrate or one with good perlite content. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
How to save a dying Cape daisy
- Warning signs
- Wilted, yellowed or spotted leaves, no flowering, soft stems.
- First aid
- Check drainage and soil moisture. Ensure good ventilation and direct sunlight.
- What kills it
- Overwatering (root rot) or lack of light. Does not tolerate waterlogging or dense shade.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly. Prune damaged parts and adjust watering/light.