Livingstone Daisy (Dorotheanthus bellidiformis)

Livingstone Daisy

Dorotheanthus bellidiformis

Daisy-like blooms glow like living confetti in full sun. Low-growing succulent groundcover; common name: Livingstone Daisy.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Requires full direct sunlight for 6–8 hours daily for optimal blooming; tolerates partial sun but produces fewer flowers
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Watering Water deeply when the top 2 cm of soil is completely dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot in succulent foliage
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Temperature Thrives in 15–25°C; protect from frost below 10°C and tolerate brief heat spikes up to 30°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Fleshy, linear to spatulate, bright green, covered in tiny papillae to retain moisture
  • Flower: Daisy-like composite blooms, 2–5 cm wide, in pink, orange, red, white, or purple; close at night
  • Stem: Trailing, succulent stems that root at nodes when in contact with soil
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged; reduce watering during prolonged heatwaves to prevent stress

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid fertilizer once every 4 weeks to support blooming. Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer to promote compact, healthy growth rather than excessive foliage

Eggshell powder topdressing:Crush dried, rinsed eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1 tsp per pot every 2 months and mix lightly into the topsoil to avoid nutrient burn
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage continuous flowering throughout the growing season
  • Trim leggy stems in mid-summer to maintain a compact, spreading growth habit
  • Remove yellowed or damaged foliage to improve airflow and reduce fungal disease risk
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic to cats; no reported toxicity

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental groundcover, container accent plant, rock garden filler