Arctotis

Arctotis is a genus of African daisies from southern Africa, with annual and perennial species grown for bright, daisy-like blooms above finely cut foliage. Their forms and hardiness vary, so choose a species or hybrid suited to the local climate. ## Flowers and landscape use Many garden forms grow as low mounds or spreading clumps, often about 1–2 feet tall. Their flowers have colorful rays around a darker center and may be yellow, orange, pink, red, or white. Flowers tend to close in the evening and on cloudy days. Use them in sunny borders, rock gardens, containers, and cutting or pollinator gardens where seasonal color is welcome. ## Siting and soil Provide full sun and sharply drained sandy or rocky soil. [North Carolina Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/arctotis/) describes drought tolerance after establishment, but regular water helps new plants root; avoid wet, poorly drained ground, where root rot can develop. Many garden forms are tender perennials and are grown as annuals in colder climates, so check hardiness for the selected species or hybrid; the [RHS profile for Arctotis × hybrida ‘Wine’](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/26895/arctotis-%C3%97-hybrida-hort-wine-1/details) describes one tender perennial example. ## Maintenance Remove faded flowers when continued flowering or a tidy display is desired. Watch for aphids, spider mites, and leaf miners, and improve drainage if leaves or stems show signs of rot.