The genus Felicia is one of southern Africa’s most charming daisy groups, celebrated for its sparkling yellow centres framed by ray florets in shades of blue, violet, lilac and white. Belonging to the Asteraceae, these plants range from tiny ground-hugging cushions and rocky crevice specialists to airy shrublets dancing above dry grasslands and fynbos slopes. Many Felicia species are exquisitely adapted to harsh conditions – sun, wind, poor soils and seasonal drought – yet reward gardeners with clouds of cheerful blooms that attract bees, butterflies and other pollinators. With their wild elegance and remarkable resilience, Felicia daisies bring a distinctly South African brilliance to gardens worldwide.

Felicia australis (Aster dentatus, Aster tenellus glaber, Psednotrichia australis) – Parasol Felicia; Sambreelastertjie, Sambreeltjies

Felicia australis brings that classic “wild Felicia” look – airy stems, neat foliage, and cheerful daisy faces – ideal for buyers wanting a species that feels authentically South African rather than “gardened.” It suits rockery-style plantings, dryland borders, and naturalistic meadow pots, and it’s especially appealing to international growers seeking Mediterranean-climate daisies with a true veld character.

This is a South African endemic species on record with the national Red List, and it belongs to the open-country flora of the Northern Cape and Western Cape Provinces, where sun and drainage are the rule. In habitat it grows among low shrubs and grasses where water moves through the soil quickly and plants are adapted to periodic dry spells.

Expect a compact to low, shrubby herbaceous habit with slender flowering stems carrying yellow-centred daisy heads; the rays are typically in the lavender-to-lilac spectrum (matching the image set style for Felicia), giving strong contrast against grey-green foliage. Flowering is generally centred on spring, often extending into early summer when conditions are favourable.

Cultivation Note: Provide maximum sun and excellent drainage (add grit/pumice to mixes and avoid heavy composts). Keep seedlings bright and cool, then harden off well; once established, water sparingly but regularly during active growth, letting the mix dry slightly between waterings.