Known as the African daisy, this genus is naturally occurring from the southern tip of Africa northwards to Angola. It consists of around 50 species of low-spreading annuals and perennials that often produce masses of large and brighly colored flowerheads. The leaves are simple, usually lance-shaped, and frequently have felted undersides. For much of the year in mild climates the daisy-like flowers top the foliage, appearing in a wide range of colors. Modern strains now cover most of the color spectrum except blue. The name Arctotis comes from the Greek and means bear's ear, which is what the individual petals on the flower are though to resemble.
CULTIVATION
African daisies thrive in light well-drained soil, and full sun. They are drought tolerant but flower much more heavily if watered well during the growing season. Propagation is by seem, through the perennial species grow readily from cuttings of the non-flowering stems.
Top Tip
If you deadhead the flowers after the first flush of summer blooms, flowering will continue for a longer period. Arctotis plants need lots of sun, but do not tolerate very hot or humid conditions.
CULTIVATION
African daisies thrive in light well-drained soil, and full sun. They are drought tolerant but flower much more heavily if watered well during the growing season. Propagation is by seem, through the perennial species grow readily from cuttings of the non-flowering stems.
Top Tip
If you deadhead the flowers after the first flush of summer blooms, flowering will continue for a longer period. Arctotis plants need lots of sun, but do not tolerate very hot or humid conditions.
No comments:
Post a Comment