Trailing African Daisy (Osteospermum fruticosum)

Trailing African Daisy

Osteospermum fruticosum

Vibrant daisy-like blooms trail gently over edges, a cheerful groundcover. Evergreen trailing shrub; common name: Trailing African Daisy.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
🌱

Plant Needs

☀️
Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; blooms most profusely in full sun, with partial shade protection in intense summer heat
💧
Watering Allow top 2–3 cm of soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
🌡️
Temperature Tolerates mild frost down to 5°C; optimal growth occurs at 15–25°C
🔍

Characteristics

  • Leaf: Small, oblong to spatulate leaves with slightly serrated edges; gray-green, fuzzy texture
  • Flower: Daisy-like composite blooms, 5–7 cm wide; colors include white, purple, pink, with dark blue centers
  • Stem: Slender, trailing woody stems that root at nodes when in contact with soil
🛠️

Care Guide

Watering

Water regularly, allowing topsoil to dry between sessions

Fertilization

Diluted balanced feed every 2 weeks. Stop fertilizing in autumn to prepare plant for dormancy

Banana peel tea:Soak 1 chopped banana peel in 1 liter of water for 3 days; dilute 1:2 with fresh water before applying to soil to avoid nutrient burn
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage continuous flowering throughout the growing season
  • Trim leggy stems in early spring to promote bushier, more compact growth
  • Remove damaged or yellowing foliage to maintain plant health and improve air circulation
⚠️

Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA confirms no toxicity to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects for humans

📖

Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental groundcover, hanging basket plant, rock garden accent