perennial

Pink Sugar African Daisy

Arctotis arctotis 'Pink Sugar'

The Story

Plant Bio

Genus of daisy-like flowers native to South Africa, known for their tolerance to heat, drought, and poor soils. Often grown as annuals in colder climates.

Features large, daisy-like flowers with iridescent, silvery-pink petals and a contrasting dark center. Foliage is silvery-green and finely cut.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesBright, daisy-like flowers add cheerful color to gardens and containers, thriving in full sun and drought conditions.
Practical UsesLow water requirement makes it ideal for xeriscaping and sustainable gardens.
Ecological BenefitsProvides nectar for pollinators such as bees and butterflies, supporting local biodiversity.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

12 inches

Width

14 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

9, 10

Water

Low

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Tender Perennial (grown as an annual)

Native To

South Africa

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage rooting.
  3. Transplant seedlings outdoors once danger of frost has passed and they are established.
  4. Water deeply once a week during dry spells to promote healthy growth.
  5. Fertilize monthly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer for vibrant blooms.
  6. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous flowering.

Pro Tip

Use organic compost to enrich soil and boost flower production.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly, especially during dry periods 💧
  • Deadhead flowers to prolong blooming 🌸
  • Apply balanced fertilizer monthly for vibrant blooms
  • Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
  • Don't forget to provide adequate sunlight for best color
  • Avoid heavy, clay soils that retain excess moisture
  • Never neglect pest and disease monitoring

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Fertilize
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Colorful border plantDrought-tolerant groundcoverBright container centerpiece

Companion Plants

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Pink Sugar African Daisy questions

What zones can Pink Sugar African Daisy grow in?

Pink Sugar African Daisy is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Pink Sugar African Daisy deer resistant?

Yes — Pink Sugar African Daisy is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Pink Sugar African Daisy bloom?

Pink Sugar African Daisy typically blooms in late spring to fall through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Pink Sugar African Daisy need full sun?

Pink Sugar African Daisy does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Pink Sugar African Daisy drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Pink Sugar African Daisy handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Keep exploring

Explore the genus

Hardy in your zone?

Grow Pink Sugar African Daisy with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.