Osteospermum 'Akila Daisy White'
identification
description
Osteospermum 'Akila Daisy White' (Osteospermum ecklonis), offered by the seed company WH Perron
Osteospermum 'Akila Daisy White' is a floriferous, compact, and high-performing annual variety, renowned for its bright white flowers with yellow centers that bloom continuously from June to October. A 2014 All-America Selections winner, it is distinguished by its extended flowering period , excellent uniformity , and superior drought tolerance compared to other osteospermums. Its neat and well-structured habit makes it an excellent choice for formal borders, modern landscaping, and high-density plantings.
From the Akila® F1 series, this osteospermum offers consistent growth, excellent stability in the garden, and ease of cultivation. Reliable, elegant, and long-lasting , it is suitable for both novice gardeners and more demanding landscaping projects.
Latin name: Osteospermum ecklonis
Maturity: Annual
Series: Akila® F1
Maturity after sowing: 14 to 16 weeks
Plant height: 25 to 40 cm
Spread: 35 to 50 cm
Flower color: White with a yellow center
Flowering: June to October
Quantity per packet: Approximately 10 seeds
Formulation: Naked
Use: Flower beds
Farming method
Sow indoors approximately 6 weeks before the last frost , in a light, well-draining, porous seed-starting mix. Maintain a temperature of around 20°C (68°F) and provide as much light as possible to ensure compact and vigorous seedlings. Germination usually occurs in 7 to 10 days . It is recommended to lightly cover the seeds with coarse vermiculite , which helps maintain consistent moisture around the seed and improves germination rates.
The substrate should remain slightly moist , without being waterlogged or completely dry. Careful watering at this stage promotes uniform germination and robust seedlings.
Growing and transplanting tips
When transplanting, prepare the soil to a depth of about 30 cm by incorporating potting soil or organic matter. Carefully remove the plant from its pot, gently loosen the roots if the root ball is dense, then place it in a hole wide enough to allow for good root spread. Adding bone meal or a soil activator at planting time promotes rapid root development. Gently firm the soil around the plant and water regularly every 2 to 3 days until the soil is well established.
Osteospermum thrives both in the ground and in pots . It prefers a sunny location and well-draining soil; if the soil is heavy, adding sand is recommended. Once established, it requires little maintenance: water only during periods of intense heat and remove faded flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming.
Flowering and uses
The flowers, held high above the foliage, provide a bright and consistent presence throughout the summer and into autumn. Hardy, elegant, and easy to grow , Osteospermum 'Akila Daisy White' is a reliable choice for creating neat and long-lasting flowerbeds with minimal maintenance and maximum visual impact.
