Felicia amelloides: Origin, names and main characteristics
felicia amelloids, popularly known as Blue daisy, Agatea, African aster, Celestina and other names, is a perennial shrub plant native to South Africa. Belongs to the family Asteraceae and is part of a genus with more than 60 species, among which Felicia pappei and Felicia filifolia also stand out. Its bright green persistent foliage and its deep blue flowers with a yellow center making it highly valued in ornamental gardening.
The blue daisy has a rounded and compact shape and can reach heights from 40 to 60 centimeters. Its leaves are green, elongated, sometimes slightly greyish on the underside, and grow densely around the stems, forming very leafy bushes. On these stems emerge numerous peduncles that support their characteristic daisy-like flowers.
Flowering and ornamental appeal
The Felicia amelloides flowers are its most notable feature, with blue petals and a yellow center that provide color and luminosity to any space. It blooms from abundantly from early spring to late autumn, covering the plant almost completely. The blue color of its flowers can vary in intensity depending on the amount of sunlight it receives and, unlike other daisies, keeps the petals open regardless of the amount of light, which adds even more ornamental value.
Because of its beauty, the Blue Daisy is used in borders, flowerbeds, rockeries, low-maintenance gardens and pots. It is also suited to gardening in sandy soils, where it helps to fix the ground, and due to its resistance to wind and drought, it is ideal for coastal areas and warm climates.
Optimal growing conditions
- Exhibition: Prefer full sun or very bright locations. If grown indoors, it should be placed in very well-lit spaces.
- Temperature: Its optimal range is between 15 and 25 ° CIt doesn't tolerate intense cold or frost. It can tolerate temperatures down to -5°C occasionally, but in cold climates it's recommended to treat it as an annual or protect it indoors.
- Ground: Requires a substrate light, fertile and very well drainedA sandy soil rich in organic matter is ideal. It does not tolerate waterlogging.
Planting or transplanting should be done when the risk of frost has passed. It can grow in poor soils, but will appreciate an enriched substrate that stimulates its flowering.
Watering and fertilizing for spectacular flowering
El Watering should be moderate. During the summer, water every two days, while in autumn and winter, watering every five days is sufficient. The plant tolerates short drought and wind, but It does not tolerate excess humidity or waterlogging.Drainage is crucial to avoid fungal root problems.
Regular fertilization favors the flowering intensity. It is recommended to add fertilizers rich in potassium and minerals every 15 days during the growing season. Water-soluble fertilizers are ideal for support their development and the continuous production of flowers.
Pruning, pests and diseases
The Blue Daisy needs little pruning, but it is advisable to do it once a year or every two years to prevent it from becoming too woody and to stimulate a more vigorous flowering. In addition, it is advisable to cut the flowers marchitas to prolong the flowering season and maintain a tidy appearance.
It is a resistant plant, but it can be attacked in spring by aphidsIn cold and humid environments, there is a risk of would alternate on leaves and stems. Maintain balanced watering and check regularly for any new pests or diseases.
Multiplication and uses in the garden
Felicia amelloides propagation can be done by seeds in spring or by cuttings in autumn or spring. In this way, you can obtain homogeneous and very re-flowering plants, perfect for colorful compositions. It is also used to create decorative shapes through pruning and associated with other garden plants.
Because of its ability to attract pollinators like bees, the blue daisy is a valuable ally for garden biodiversity.
This species, due to its beauty and resistance, adapts to both gardens and balconies and terraces, providing color for several months and requiring minimal care if its characteristics are respected. essential needs of light, irrigation and fertilization.