African daisy (Arctotis hybrida)
Care, watering, light and tips for African 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 African daisy
Arctotis hybrida, commonly known as Aurora Daisy, is an annual or short-lived perennial plant from the Asteraceae family, cherished for its vibrant, daisy-like flowers. Its petals, often with a silvery sheen on the reverse, come in shades ranging from white and yellow to orange, pink, and red, often with a striking dark center. It is ideal for sunny flower beds, borders, and containers, adding a splash of bright color and a Mediterranean feel to the garden.
Native range
South Africa
Care tips
It requires full sun for abundant flowering and well-drained, sandy, or slightly poor soil. Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings, as it is drought-tolerant once established. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. To encourage continuous blooming, deadhead spent flowers regularly.
How to save a dying African daisy
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or brown leaves, general wilting, lack of flowering or dried flowers.
- First aid
- Check drainage. If potted, ensure no standing water. Prune spent blooms.
- What kills it
- Overwatering, especially in winter. Also waterlogging and lack of direct sunlight.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't completely rotted. Requires immediate attention and condition adjustment.