Garden hybrid
This is a garden hybrid, bred from more than one wild species, so it has no single species page of its own.
2 other cultivars
The Story
Plant Bio
Osteospermum x hybrida 'Purple' is a low-growing, bushy perennial with daisy-like flowers featuring vibrant purple petals and a central yellow disc, often used in summer bedding and containers.
This cultivar is prized for its striking purple blooms that provide a bold splash of color, and its excellent tolerance to drought and heat, making it ideal for sunny garden spots.
Uses & Benefits:
Bred from more than one wild species, so it has no species page of its own.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Annual
Height
12 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
9, 10
Water
Moderate, drought-tolerant once established
Humidity
Prefers dry to moderate humidity
Lifespan
Tender perennial
Native To
South Africa
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in spring.
- Water gently to keep soil moist but not soggy.
- Place in full sun for best flowering.
- Thin seedlings to prevent overcrowding, after 4 weeks.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced liquid feed.
- Deadhead spent blooms to encourage new flowers.
Pro Tip
Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry spells 💧
- Deadhead to prolong flowering 🌸
- Use balanced fertilizer monthly
- Provide full sun for optimal blooms
- Mulch to retain soil moisture
Don't
- Overwater, avoid soggy soil ❌
- Allow soil to dry out completely between watering
- Forget to deadhead spent flowers
- Use heavy, clay soil without amendments ❌
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Pinch | ||||||||||||
| Plant |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Osteospermum Purple questions
What zones can Osteospermum Purple grow in?
Osteospermum Purple 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 Osteospermum Purple deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Osteospermum Purple, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Osteospermum Purple bloom?
Osteospermum Purple 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 Osteospermum Purple need full sun?
Osteospermum Purple does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Osteospermum Purple drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Osteospermum Purple handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Osteospermum to compare
African Daisy 'Bright Lights Pink'
Osteospermum x hybrida 'Bright Lights Pink'
D Violet Ice African Daisy
Osteospermum bitterbergianum 'D Violet Ice'
Zion Copper Amethyst African Daisy
Osteospermum ecklonis 'Zion Copper Amethyst'
Sunscape Daisy African Daisy
Osteospermum oscillatum 'Sunscape Daisy'
D Double Purple African Daisy
Osteospermum osteospermum 'D Double Purple'
Compact White African Daisy
Osteospermum ecklonis 'Compact White'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Osteospermum Purple 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.