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Euryops spp.
true-eye daisies
Overview
Euryops spp. is a genus of about 100 species of evergreen subshrubs and shrubs in the daisy family, Asteraceae, native mainly to southern Africa with further species in the Arabian Peninsula and on Socotra. Plants grow from 1 to 6 feet (0.3-1.8 m) tall and wide, forming rounded, well-branched mounds. Leaves are alternate, often crowded toward the branch tips, and range from narrow and entire to finely divided and fern-like, in shades of green to gray-green. Flower heads are borne singly on slender stalks held above the foliage and follow the typical daisy plan, with a ring of yellow ray florets around a yellow central disc; heads measure 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) across. Many species flower over a long season, and some bloom nearly year-round in frost-free climates. E. pectinatus and E. chrysanthemoides are widely grown as garden shrubs. The genus is frost-sensitive, with most species damaged below about 25 degrees F (minus 4 C). Plants are short-lived, often declining after five to eight years, and grow quickly to replace older specimens. Stems become woody and bare at the base with age.
Native Range
Euryops spp. is native mainly to southern Africa, with its center of diversity in South Africa, and extends into tropical East Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and the island of Socotra. Species grow in grassland, fynbos, rocky slopes, and semi-arid scrub. A few species reach higher mountain elevations.Suggested Uses
Euryops spp. is planted as a flowering shrub in borders, gravel gardens, and coastal plantings, and in containers. The long bloom season suits mixed beds and low informal hedges. Cut stems are used in casual arrangements.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height1' - 6'
Width/Spread1' - 5'
Colors
Bloom Information
Many Euryops spp. species flower over a long season from autumn through spring, and some bloom nearly continuously in mild, frost-free climates. Peak flowering for the common shrubby species falls in winter and early spring. Heads open in succession over many weeks.
Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
green to gray-greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 6-10 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Euryops spp. species grow in full sun on light, well-drained soil and tolerate drought once established. They withstand heat and coastal wind but are damaged in heavy, wet soils. Most species are frost-sensitive and hardy only in USDA zones 9 to 11, with leaf and stem damage below about 25 degrees F (minus 4 C). Soil pH from about 6.0 to 7.5 suits most species. Plants are short-lived and grow quickly, often needing replacement after several years. Aphids and root rot in wet ground are the main problems.Pruning
Shear plants lightly after the main flush to keep a compact shape and prolong bloom. Cutting back hard into bare old wood often fails to regrow. Spent flower heads can be trimmed to keep plants tidy.Container Growing
✓ Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 5 gallons