Osteospermum Flower Power Spider Purple - Cape Daisy

Osteospermum 'Flower Power Spider Purple' is part of a new generation of Cape Daisies that are quite unique. Their clean appearance, long summer flowering period, and unusual architecture of brightly coloured flowers make them excellent plants for brightening up flower beds. Formerly known as Dimorphoteca or Rain Daisy, this less hardy perennial thrives in the sun and blooms even in very hot weather. In the 'Purple' variety, the flowers are composed of a row of partially tubular purple petals that form a geometric stained glass pattern, around a large violet-brown centre. It is also an excellent perennial for rock gardens and dry slopes in mild climates.

Mainly native to South Africa, Osteospermum are perennial or annual plants closely related to dimorphothecas and belong, like them, to the large Asteraceae family. Most osteospermums grown in gardens are hybrids of uncertain origin. They are generally very robust plants, useful for ornamenting dry soils. Their preferred region in South Africa corresponds to the Atlantic coast, which has a Mediterranean climate.

'Flower Power Spider Purple' is a recent variety that has a more branched and compact habit, making it ideal for container cultivation. It flowers from May to October, depending on the cultivation method and climate. The mature plant, which takes only a few months to reach adulthood, will reach an average height of 30 cm (12in) and a width of 40-45 cm (16-18in), forming a beautifully floral cushion. Its flowers are quite large compared to the size of the plant. They are a vibrant purple and are borne on branched stems emerging from shiny green, toothed foliage that will persist in frost-free winters. They close up when the light is insufficient. Usually grown as an annual in temperate climates, the plant can regrow from the stump in spring if the winter is not too cold (maximum hardiness -7/-8°C (19.4/17.6°F)) and the soil is well-drained.

Osteospermums have become indispensable due to their willingness to flower on dry slopes, as well as on heat-soaked terraces and balconies. They can be combined in a dry garden with catmints, shrubby salvias, verbenas, lantanas, or immortelles. They will highlight borders and decorate rock gardens. They form remarkable ground cover in a mix of colours. In flowering containers, they can be paired with bidens or Erigeron karvinskianus, for example.

Young plants measuring 5 to 10cm (2 to 4in) in cases of 5 small plug plants measuring 3cm (1in) in diameter and 4cm (2in) in height. Our plants are at least eight weeks old and are strong enough to be planted in the ground.

Note: Please be aware that our young plug plants are professional products intended for experienced gardeners. Upon receipt, transplant and store them in a sheltered location (veranda, greenhouse, cold frame, etc.) at a temperature above 14°C (57.2°F) for a few weeks before planting them outdoors once the risk of frost has passed.