A blue marguerite is a species of cultivated plant grown for its flowers, that is sometimes known as the blue daisy. Often also called Felicia, because of the scientific name Felicia amelloides, these plants are widely grown. They are native to tropical regions, where they are grown as perennials. In cooler climates, blue marguerites are grown as annuals. These plants grow well in dry, hot conditions.
In warmer climates, the blue marguerite can be used as a garden plant year round. The plants grow to between 1 and 1.5 ft (0.3-0.45 m) tall. They can spread widely, however. One plant can spread up to three ft (0.9 m) in a single growing season. Over several years, the plants can take over entire flower beds if not pruned back.
After blooming, the flowers will go to seed if they are left on the plant. If this is the case, the plants will not flower until the seeds fall off. To keep the plants constantly producing flowers, it is best to shear off the dead flowers once the plants have finished blooming.
Blue daisies prefer full sun, but will bloom in partial shade in locations where the summers are warm. In more temperate climates, blue marguerite plants are grown as annuals and produce flowers during the summer. They can tolerate heavy frost. If there is not a deep freeze, they might be able to survive a winter. Otherwise, seedlings are usually replanted in the spring.
These plants are renowned for being drought-tolerant. As long as they are watered lightly when they are first planted, Felicia can survive hot, dry conditions. The plants may require an occasional deep watering, if there are no rains over the course of a summer.
One potential problem with growing blue marguerites is that they have a low tolerance for salts. For that reason, it is good to water the plant thoroughly and infrequently. Frequent applications of small amounts of water are more likely to build up salts in the soil.
Another way to grow the blue marguerite in cooler climates is as a container plant. They do well when raised in this manner, and can be brought indoors and grown as houseplants over the winter. They prefer direct sun and to be kept damp when grown inside. The plants grow best when kept at 50-55°F (10-12.8°C) at night, and 68-72°F (20-22.2°C) during the day.
Blue marguerite flowers are used as cut flowers for small vases. They are also included in bouquets. Their blue coloring makes them stand out in mixtures of other flowers. There is also a variegated variety that is typically grown as a foliage plant.