The Blue Daisy or Blue Felicia (Felicia amelloides) is a perennial, herbaceous to semi-shrub plant native to South Africa and belongs to the Asteraceae family, like chrysanthemums. With its vibrant blue flowers and yellow center, this species is widely used in landscaping for its ornamental beauty, resilience, and ease of cultivation.
Named by the German botanist Andreas Voss (1857–1924), this delicate daisy from the genus Felicia honors Felix, a German officer from Regensburg who died in 1846, while the specific epithet amelloides derives from Latin and means “similar to the genus Amellus,” referencing the similarity of its leaves to those of this genus, which is also native to South Africa.
Its height ranges from 20 to 40 inches (50 cm to 1 m), and it is highly branched, forming a dense vegetative mass. The leaves are opposite, elliptical to obovate, leathery, and have a rough texture due to short, stiff hairs. The coloration is dark green on the upper side and lighter on the underside, with recurved margins. The inflorescences, its main attraction, are capitulum-type, about 1.2 inches (3 cm) in diameter. They feature approximately twelve ligulate flowers (petals) of sky-blue color, encircling a central yellow disc (disc florets).
The inflorescences are supported by long, reddish stems (up to 7 inches or 18 cm) that rise above the foliage, creating a striking visual effect. Flowering occurs mainly from spring to autumn, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The fruits are achenes with a plume that allows wind dispersal (anemochory).
Felicia amelloides has several cultivars notable for their aesthetic variations and specific adaptations, enhancing their applications in landscaping. Among the most well-known is ‘Variegata,’ which features leaves with cream or yellowish margins, providing an interesting visual contrast even when not in bloom. Another popular cultivar is ‘Santa Anita,’ distinguished by its intense blue flowers and more compact size, ideal for pots and small flowerbeds. Additionally, cultivars selected for greater resistance to adverse climatic conditions, such as hot and humid summers, maintain prolonged flowering even in challenging environments. Other notable cultivars include the ‘Felicity’ series, ‘San Gabriel,’ and ‘Blue Marguerite.’
The blue daisy is an excellent choice for various landscaping projects, standing out as a ground cover where it forms dense clusters ideal for large flowerbeds and slopes. Its prolonged flowering and compact growth make it perfect for borders and edges, elegantly defining pathways and flowerbeds. Furthermore, it adapts well to rock gardens, thriving in stony soils and well-drained areas. For smaller spaces, it can be grown in pots and planters, provided proper drainage is ensured. Another notable feature is its ability to attract pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, contributing to biodiversity and ecological balance in the garden.
Felicia amelloides is adapted to temperate and subtropical climates, preferring regions with mild winters and summers that are not excessively hot. In cold climates, it can be grown as an annual or protected in greenhouses during winter. The plant is sensitive to prolonged frost and does not tolerate temperatures below 23°F (-5°C). For healthy development and abundant flowering, it should be cultivated in full sun. In regions with very hot and humid summers, flowering may decrease or cease during peak heat.
The ideal soil for growing blue daisies should be well-drained, light, and fertile, with a good amount of organic matter. Clayey and waterlogged soils should be avoided as they promote root rot. A substrate mixture can include 70% organic compost and 30% sand to ensure proper drainage. Irrigation should be moderate, keeping the soil moist but never waterlogged. During winter, watering should be reduced and done only when the soil is dry.
To stimulate flowering and vigorous growth, it is recommended to apply fertilizers specifically for flowering plants (NPK 04-14-08) every three weeks during spring and summer. Organic fertilizers, such as chicken manure (1.4 lb/10.8 ft² or 700 g/m²), can also be incorporated into the soil during planting. Removing wilted and dried flowers is essential to encourage new blooms and maintain the plant’s healthy appearance. At the end of winter, as well as during the initial growth phase, light pruning can be carried out to promote branching and plant density.
Propagation of the blue daisy can be done through seeds or cuttings. Seeds germinate in about a week, while cuttings, taken in late summer or early spring, root easily in moist and well-drained substrates. Generally, it is a hardy plant with few pest or disease issues. However, under improper conditions, it may be affected by aphids, mites, root rot, and Botrytis.
