Seeds 7 g

The Cape Daisy, or Monarch of the Veldt (Venidium fastuosum, a synonym of Arctotis fastuosa), is a striking annual from the Namaqualand drylands of southern Africa. Its glowing, daisy-like flower heads measure about 8-10 cm across and circle a dark central disc, opening wide in sunshine and closing at night or under cloud. Reaching roughly 60-75 cm tall and about 30 cm wide, it is a wonderful choice for sunny borders, gravel gardens and cut-flower vases.

Planting

A half-hardy annual that loves warmth and light. Start indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last frost, sowing shallowly at around 3 mm; outdoors, sow up to 6 mm deep and cover only lightly so seeds get warmth. Germination takes about 14-21 days at 16-18 C. Space plants about 25-30 cm apart in full sun and sharply drained soil.

Fertilizing

Work about 5 cm of compost into the bed before planting, then give a flower fertilizer mid-season. It is not a heavy feeder, so an occasional light feed is enough to keep blooms coming.

Care

Give full sun and water sparingly; it prefers dry conditions and dislikes humidity and waterlogged soil. Water regularly until established, then only in long dry spells. Stake larger plants, shelter exposed sites from wind, and deadhead regularly to extend flowering through summer.