From the South African countryside comes this classic flower. African Daisies, also known as Cape Marigolds are easy to grow and one of the earliest to flower, this is one of the most beautiful annuals with scented, clumping foliage.
The silky flowers are 5 to 10cm (2 to 4in) across and come in a multitude of colours, brilliant shades of white, yellow, and orange. They are drought tolerant and perform at their best in full sun and well drained soil.

For the front of the border in full sun the flowers glistening throughout the day, and closing up each evening or if placed in a shaded position. The flowers are borne in great profusion over the whole plant, magnificent for the border, pots, patios and all sunny places. An excellent variety to sow in early spring: it will produce extravagant colour for weeks

Sowing: Sow indoors in Feb to April, or sow direct in April to May
Seeds can be sown directly where they are to flower, four weeks before the last frost dates (in the UK this is usually around late April).
When 3 to 5cm (1 to 2in) tall thin to 20cm (8in) apart.

Otherwise they can be started early indoors in early to late spring (Feb to April), normally 4 to 8 weeks before planting outside.
Sow in pots or trays containing a well draining compost mix. Cover the seed with 1/8th “ of sieved compost. The compost should be kept moist but not wet at all times. Germination should occur between 10 to 30 days.
Thin (prick out) to 7.5cm (3in) pots when seedlings have developed two proper leaves and are large enough to handle.
Gradually acclimatise to outdoor conditions for 10 to 15 days before planting out. Space 60cm (24in) apart.

Cultivation:
To prolong the bloom pick off flowers as soon as they fade.

Plant Uses:
Cottage/Informal Garden, Cut Flowers, Flowers Borders and Beds, Wildflower Gardens or Wildlife Gardens.

Companions:
Grasses, Helianthus, Chrysanthemum, Crocosmia, Salvia, Dahlia,

Nomenclature:
Dimorphotheca is in the family Asteraceae.
The genus name, Dimorphotheca, means "two shapes of seed" relating to the fact that the plant produces two non-identical seed forms. “Stick” and “Flake”…these seeds are the stick variety. It used to be included in the genus Osteospermum, and is sometimes referred to by that name.
It grows in rainfall areas of south west regions of Africa but it can also be found in desert, sandy regions of Namibia.