Arctotis
Arctotis spp. (including A. venusta, A. × hybrida)
Arctotis, commonly known as African Daisy, is a vibrant sun-loving perennial or annual featuring large, showy daisy-like flowers with distinctive metallic sheens. Native to South Africa, these drought-tolerant blooms add bold color to summer gardens.
Asteraceae (Daisy family)
Summer to early autumn (June-September); continuous in mild climates
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: coreopsiss and gaillardias also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Arctotis brings the vibrant, sun-drenched beauty of South African landscapes to gardens worldwide. The flowers' habit of opening in full sun and closing at night or in cloudy weather symbolizes responsiveness to nature and the importance of sunshine. The metallic, iridescent sheen on many cultivars gives them a jewel-like quality. African Daisies represent joy, warmth, and the celebration of summer, making them popular in cheerful garden designs and sunny borders.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun essential (6+ hours daily); flowers close in shade or on cloudy days
Water
Low to moderate; drought-tolerant once established, but performs best with occasional watering during dry spells
Soil
Well-drained, Sandy, Poor to moderately fertile, Neutral to slightly alkaline pH (6.5-7.5)
Expert Growing Tips
Plant in full sun - flowers close in shade or overcast conditions
Requires excellent drainage; avoid waterlogged soils
Deadhead regularly to prolong blooming
Cut back after first flush of flowers to encourage rebloom
Often grown as annual in zones 8 and below (not reliably winter-hardy)
Can be overwintered in frost-free conditions or as container plants
Sow seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost
Tolerates coastal conditions and salt spray
Avoid over-fertilizing; thrives in poor to moderately fertile soil
May self-seed in mild climates
Attracts butterflies and pollinators
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Bedding and border plantings
- Container gardens and pots
- Coastal gardens (salt-tolerant)
- Xeriscaping and drought-tolerant landscapes
- Mediterranean-style gardens
- Rock gardens
- Cut flowers
- Mass plantings for color impact
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Arctotis
why do my arctotis flowers close
Arctotis flowers close at night and on cloudy days — they require full sun to open fully, so ensure they're planted in a location with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight.
are arctotis perennials or annuals
Arctotis are tender perennials that survive winters in zones 9-11 — in colder zones they're grown as annuals, dying in frost, or can be overwintered indoors.
how do you deadhead arctotis
Deadhead Arctotis by removing spent flowers at the base of the flower stem regularly — this encourages continuous blooming and prevents the plant from going to seed.
is arctotis drought tolerant
Yes, Arctotis is drought-tolerant once established and thrives in dry, well-drained soil — however, occasional watering during prolonged dry spells improves flowering.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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Explore More Beautiful Flowers
Discover other flowers with similar meanings, characteristics, or cultural significance.
Coreopsis
Coreopsis tinctoria (and other spp.)
Coreopsis are cheerful daisy-like flowers in bright yellows and oranges that bloom prolifically. They symbolize cheerfulness, joy, and always being happy.
Gaillardia
Gaillardia × grandiflora (and other spp.)
Gaillardia, commonly known as blanket flower, is a vibrant daisy-like perennial that blooms from spring to fall. These drought-tolerant plants symbolize warmth, optimism, and resilience.
Chrysanthemum
Chrysanthemum × morifolium (and other spp.)
Chrysanthemums, or mums, are popular fall flowers with diverse forms and colors. They symbolize joy, optimism, longevity, and are culturally significant worldwide.