Osteospermum, commonly known as the African Daisy or Cape Daisy, is a genus of flowering plants within the Asteraceae family, native to Southern Africa. From a botanical perspective, it is a herbaceous perennial or subshrub, often grown as an annual in colder climates. It is prized in horticulture for its vibrant, daisy-like flowers that exhibit a remarkable trait known as nyctinasty—the petals close at night and on overcast days, reopening with sunlight. This genus encompasses numerous cultivars developed for their diverse flower colors, forms, and growth habits, making them a popular choice for containers, borders, and ground cover.
To answer the core question: yes, deer will eat Osteospermum if other preferred food sources are scarce, as deer are opportunistic browsers. However, Osteospermum is widely recognized and classified by many horticultural institutions and extension services as a "deer-resistant" plant. This classification means it is not a preferred browse and is typically low on a deer's list of desirable foods. Deer tend to avoid plants with certain characteristics that Osteospermum possesses, making it a relatively safe choice for gardens in areas with moderate deer pressure.
The resistance of Osteospermum to deer and other pests is not a single trait but a combination of physical and chemical defenses developed through evolution. The primary deterrents include the texture and aroma of the foliage. The leaves of most Osteospermum varieties are slightly fleshy, with a somewhat leathery or fuzzy texture. This physical characteristic is unappealing to the sensitive mouths of deer. More importantly, the foliage emits a distinct, pungent aroma when brushed against or crushed. This scent, often described as spicy or musky, is a key repellent. It is caused by volatile chemical compounds that deer find unpalatable or offensive, signaling that the plant is not a suitable food source. This aromatic defense mechanism is a common trait among many plants in the Asteraceae family.
It is crucial to understand that "deer-resistant" is not synonymous with "deer-proof." A plant's resistance can be influenced by external environmental factors. During periods of extreme drought, in late winter when food is exceptionally scarce, or in areas with an overpopulated deer herd, deer may be forced to sample plants they would normally avoid. In these high-pressure situations, young, tender new growth on Osteospermum might be nibbled as deer test all available vegetation. The overall health and abundance of the local deer population and the availability of their natural forage will always be the ultimate determinants of what they choose to eat.
When placed on a spectrum of deer preference, Osteospermum ranks significantly higher in resistance than many common garden plants. Deer highly preferred species include hostas, daylilies, roses, and tulips. These plants are often described as "deer candy." In contrast, Osteospermum falls into the same resistant category as other aromatic, textured, or toxic plants such as lavender, salvia, Russian sage, catmint, and peonies. Therefore, while not absolutely guaranteed to be untouched, Osteospermum presents a much lower risk of damage and is a recommended selection for landscapes where deer browsing is a concern.
