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No Quibble GuaranteeHow to grow Arctotis
Arctotis are a part of the Asteraceae family; more well-known members of the Asteraceae family include daisies and sunflowers. Also known as African Daisy, Arctotis are native to the dry slopes of southern Africa. Named by famous botanist Carl Linnaeus, Arctotis’ origin came from a combination of the word ‘arktos’ (bear) and ‘otis’ (ear).
While its native habitat is undeniably warm, Arctotis can survive and thrive in UK temperatures and growing conditions. In fact, one cultivar A. x hybrida ‘Flame’ has even been awarded the Award of Garden Merit by the RHS (Royal Horticultural Society) because of this. For those of you who live in colder climates, Arctotis can be grown as a half-hardy annual rather than a perennial plant.
Arctotis enjoys full sun and well-draining soil. It is drought-tolerant and blooms during the summer and autumn months. Large, daisy-like blooms come in vibrant displays of pinks, yellows and reds with subtle ombré effects. Interestingly, the flower of Arctotis plants may close in the later afternoon of each day or in dull weather - you will see them re-open at the first sign of sun and warmth. Arctotis also has simple green foliage with a shimmering underside and the full plant has an upright, bushy growth habit.
Ready to learn more about this fast-growing plant? Read on to learn everything you need to know about Arctotis...
Key Information
Soil pH
Position
Hardiness
Where & when to plant Arctotis
You can grow Arctotis in flower beds, borders or containers. If you are growing Arctotis from roots or young plants, do this in either the spring (once the last frost has passed) or in autumn once the previous flowering season has ended. It is important that Arctotis are planted in well-draining soil with sand, loam or chalk. Arctotis is drought-tolerant and does not enjoy being overwatered or left in standing water so adequate drainage is vital.
How to plant Arctotis
While you can grow Arctotis from seed, it is much more efficient to grow them from a small plant or rootball, particularly in UK climates where it is not as warm
Find a position in your border, flower bed or container that benefits from full sun (6-8 hours per day). Do not forget that Arctotis grows to heights of 45cm when mature, so plant in front of taller perennials and plants
With 30cm of space between each, plant each Arctotis into a hole that is the same depth and width as the root ball. Pat in with soil and settle by watering in
While your Arctotis is in its early growth stage, water regularly.
What to plant with Arctotis
Due to Arctotis’ love of full sun and their small stature, other full-sun border plants will make great neighbours. Agapanthus is a full sun-lover and ideal in borders and containers with striking white and purple flowers that bloom over the summer and autumn. Small Delphiniums are another great pick, thriving in the same environment as Arctotis and reaching heights of 200cm - perfect for the back of a border. Finally, the tall green stems of Lavender are adorned with purple scented flowers throughout the summer and will look beautiful alongside Arctotis.
How to care for Arctotis
Pruning & Deadheading
As with most plants, care for Arctotis by deadheading spent flowers once the flowering period is over - regular deadheading can encourage a longer flowering period.
Watering
Your Arctotis plant will require regular watering until established in well-draining soil. Arctotis are drought tolerant due to their native habitat. After the initial growth period, Arctotis can be watered moderately - only when the soil becomes dry.
Cold Protection
Arctotis is a tender plant that may struggle in temperatures beneath 5°C. If you are growing your Arctotis in a container, you can bring them indoors over the winter. If the winter is particularly cold and your Arctotis plants are outdoors, they should be treated as annuals.
Pests & Diseases
Arctotis are generally pest-free and disease-free. However, as Arctotis enjoy dry soil they may suffer from root rot if overwatered or left in standing water or poor-draining soil.
How to propagate Arctotis
In the UK, the best way to propagate Arctotis is by taking cuttings in either spring or autumn - when there is no immediate risk of frost. Choose healthy stems to cut and used sterilised scissors or secateurs to do so to reduce the spread of disease
Prepare with a small container of water nearby, so you can place each cutting in water once taken - this reduces dehydration. Take cuttings in lengths of 10-15cm from healthy stems
Once all cuttings have been taken, pinch or cut the leaves from the lower third (3-5cm) of the stem - make sure to leave a small amount of leaf joint intact. Add each cutting to the corner of a pot or container with rooting soil - this will give each cutting the support to stand upright
Cover your cuttings container or pot with a plastic bag to create humidity. Place this in a warm and sunny position away from direct sunlight and water regularly while Arctotis is establishing.
Common Arctotis Questions
Is Arctotis perennial?
While Arctotis is perennial in its native climate, in the UK it is more likely to succeed when grown as an annual.
How do you care for Arctotis?
Arctotis needs moderate watering and well-draining soil to thrive. As a tender plant, take extra care in the winter months as Arctotis may struggle in temperatures lower than 5°C.
How do you grow Arctotis?
Arctotis needs full sun and well-draining soil to grow. Suited to flower beds and borders, grow Arctotis in the front of taller-growing plants for an attractive display.