Osteospermum – African Daisy (White with Orange Centre)

This cheerful flowering plant produces masses of bright white daisy-like blooms with vivid orange centres, bringing bold contrast and long-lasting colour to patio pots, baskets, and sunny garden displays throughout summer. Osteospermum, commonly known as African Daisy, flowers continuously from late spring until the first frosts, opening fully in sunshine and creating a vibrant, pollinator-friendly display. Its compact, bushy habit makes it ideal for containers, borders, and mixed summer planting schemes.

Osteospermum with white petals and orange centres is loved for its striking colour combination and excellent weather tolerance. The crisp white flowers appear almost glowing in bright sunlight, while the warm orange centres add depth and a slightly tropical feel to displays. Particularly well suited to sunny spots and drier conditions, it performs brilliantly through warm British summers with minimal maintenance.

Tender Perennial
Bushy, Compact, Long Flowering

Flowers: Late Spring to First Frosts
Foliage: Spring to Autumn

Scientific Name
Osteospermum hybrid (bone seed plant)

Synonyms
Previously classified within the genus Dimorphotheca in some older references

Common Name
African Daisy, Cape Daisy

Origin
Cultivated hybrid originating from southern African Osteospermum species

Pruning Tips
Remove faded flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming. Lightly trim back plants during midsummer if they become leggy or flowering slows.

Wildlife Value
The open flowers are attractive to bees, hoverflies, butterflies, and other pollinating insects throughout summer.

Positioning
Best grown in full sun in patio pots, hanging baskets, window boxes, and sheltered borders. Flowers open best in bright sunny conditions.

Water
Water regularly during warmer weather, especially in containers, but allow the top layer of compost to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid overly wet conditions.

Soil
Thrives in fertile, free-draining compost or soil. A quality peat-free container compost with added drainage is ideal.

Food
Feed every 1–2 weeks with a balanced or high-potash liquid fertiliser during the growing season to encourage prolonged flowering.

Pet-safe
Generally considered non-toxic to pets, although ingestion may still cause mild stomach upset.

Sprouts Top Tips
Osteospermums are brilliant for sunny patios and pair beautifully with trailing silver foliage or deep purple flowers for a bright Mediterranean-inspired display.