Kapmargerite Akila Sunset Shade - Osteospermum x hybrida

The Osteospermum Akila® 'Sunset Shades' is a mixed selection of Marguerite du Cap that develops, on a compact, very branched plant, with dark green lanceolate foliage, the most beautiful range of sunset shades. The flowers bloom in burgundy, pink-red, salmon, apricot, orange, and yellow tones, around a more or less dark centre. These perennial daisies are not very hardy, but do not fear drought or poor soils and require little care.

Osteospermums, also known as Cape daisies or African daisies, belong to the asteraceae family. They are perennials grown as annuals in temperate climates. Not very hardy, they indeed fear temperatures below -5°C especially if frosts are repeated. However, with mild winters, especially along the coast, they will display their beautiful dark green foliage throughout the winter. Osteospermums offer an impressive range of colours. The Akila® 'Sunset Shades' selection presents a range of warm colours, in burgundy-red, orange, apricot, salmon, yellow, pink-red. They display a profusion of solitary flowers 5 to 6 cm in diameter, carried at a height of 30 cm, on a very branched clump 50 cm wide.

They grow in South African sandy soils, along steep slopes or at the base of cliffs. From their natural habitat, they have retained a preference for well-drained, poor soils and full sun. Enduring, with their long flowering from June to October, they are appreciated by low-maintenance gardeners. During dry periods, these beautiful, very understated daisies will simply thrive with a little water. To stimulate flowering, simply remove the faded flowers.

Osteospermums, frugal plants, appreciate sunny locations and well-drained soils. Border 'Sunset Shades' with other Osteospermums in warm tones or in pink tones that complement each other well. Add shrubby salvias in the background and heathers in the foreground with grey-foliaged plants like santolina ‘Edward Bowles’. They are so nectar-rich that even butterflies never tire of watching them. Highly prized in containers and easy to store over winter, they make generous bouquets.

If you happen to water them during a very hot and dry summer, do not wet their foliage. You might see powdery mildew appear. With this precaution taken, they are very resistant to diseases.