The Dorotheanthus bellidiformis, commonly known as the Livingstone Daisy, is a brightly colored, low-growing plant valued for its mat-forming, succulent foliage and brilliant, daisy-like flowers. This South African native is typically cultivated as an annual in most climates, though it can act as a tender perennial in warmer zones. Its trailing habit makes it a popular choice for ground cover, rock gardens, and container planting, thriving in sunny, dry conditions. Propagation is straightforward, offering two reliable methods: starting from seed for mass planting or taking stem cuttings to preserve specific colors or variegated types.
Propagation by Seed
Starting Dorotheanthus from seed is the most frequent method, especially for annual varieties, and it allows for the production of many plants quickly. The process should begin indoors about six to eight weeks before the last expected spring frost to ensure seedlings are ready for outdoor planting. Using a light, fine-grade, and well-draining seed starter mix is necessary to prevent damping off.
The seeds require light for successful germination, so they must be surface-sown and not buried beneath the soil. Gently pressing the tiny seeds into the pre-moistened compost and then misting the surface ensures good seed-to-soil contact. Covering the tray with a clear dome or plastic wrap helps maintain the high humidity and consistent moisture.
A steady temperature between 70°F and 75°F (21°C–24°C) is ideal for encouraging sprouting, which can be achieved using a heat mat. Germination can begin in as little as seven to ten days, though it may take up to three weeks for all seeds to emerge. Once the seedlings appear, remove the humidity dome to allow for air circulation and prevent fungal issues.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Propagating Dorotheanthus through stem cuttings is the preferred method for maintaining the genetic identity of specific cultivars, such as variegated types, or for overwintering tender perennial varieties. The best time to take these cuttings is during late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing but before it has put all its energy into flowering. Select healthy, non-flowering stem tips that are approximately three to five inches long.
Prepare the cutting by carefully removing the lower leaves to expose at least one or two nodes, where the new roots will form. Dipping the cut end into a rooting hormone powder can accelerate the process. Insert the prepared stems into a sterile, well-draining medium, such as sharp sand or perlite, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged.
The cuttings require a warm environment and bright, indirect light to encourage root development. Bottom heat, maintaining a temperature around 72°F to 74°F (22°C–23°C), is highly beneficial for quick rooting, which typically occurs within ten to twelve days. Once roots have visibly formed and the cutting shows new growth, the rooted plant is ready to be treated as a mature specimen.
Essential Care for New Propagations
After propagation, both seedlings and rooted cuttings require careful transitioning before moving permanently to the garden. Seedlings with a strong root system and true leaves are ready for hardening off. This involves gradually acclimating the young plants to outdoor conditions by placing them in a sheltered location for increasing durations over one to two weeks.
Transplanting should occur once all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed, usually in late spring. Space the young plants about six to twelve inches apart to allow for their spreading growth habit. The planting hole should be slightly larger than the root ball, and the plant should be set at the same depth it was growing previously.
New plantings require consistent moisture for the first couple of weeks to establish their root systems, but gardeners must avoid overwatering, as Dorotheanthus is a succulent that prefers dry conditions. The plants thrive in full sun and well-drained, sandy, or poor soil. Once established, the plants are highly drought-tolerant and need only infrequent watering.