For a burst of crisp, cheerful colour, few plants beat the Cape Marguerite. Also known as Van Staden’s River Daisy or Blouwitmagriet, this fast-growing evergreen perennial shrub produces large, luminous daisy flowers up to 8cm across. The classic form features striking white ray florets (often a soft blush pink on the reverse) surrounding a central disc of intense deep blue or purple. The peak flowering period is in spring, but blooms continue through summer into autumn, providing months of reliable colour. The lush, dark green aromatic leaves form a dense, leafy mound that sets off those showy flowers beautifully.
Native to a specific area in the Eastern Cape (around Uitenhage and Humansdorp), this daisy is wonderfully suited to the South African climate. In the Western Cape, it thrives in full sun—at least 6 hours of direct light for the best display—and demands well-drained, sandy or loamy soil. Once established, it’s remarkably drought-tolerant and water-wise, handles coastal winds easily, and is hardy to light frost. Reaching up to 1m tall and wide, it’s perfect for borders, mixed beds, rockeries, large containers, or as a colourful low hedge.
Key Features:
- Large white daisies with dramatic dark blue centres and purple-flushed reverse petals
- A proud South African native that’s water-wise once established
- Spectacular flowering in cooler winter and spring months
- Attracts bees and butterflies
Gardening Note: Plant in well-drained, sandy or loamy soil in full sun for the best flowering display. Water regularly until established; mature plants are highly drought-tolerant. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. Prune lightly after the main flowering season to keep the plant compact and bushy. Protect from severe frost in colder inland valleys.
