Mezoo, also known as Dorotheanthus or Livingstone Daisy, is a popular annual plant native to South Africa. Mezoo is known for its small, oval-shaped leaves that are green in the center and small, daisy-like flowers that are typically pink or red. The Mezoo Trailing Red is the plant found in the Upstate. This plant is low-maintenance and easy to care for, making it a popular indoor and outdoor gardening choice.
Growing and Caring For Mezoo
Start by choosing a spot with full sun exposure, as Livingstone daisy prefers at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. These daisies prefer sandy or rocky soil with excellent drainage to prevent waterlogged roots. Before planting, prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter to improve its fertility and texture. Regular watering is essential during the growing season, but no need to overwater, as these plants are drought-tolerant and can succumb to root rot if left in soggy conditions.
There is no need to dead-head Mezoo trailing red as it is self-cleaning. Fertilize the plants with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once every four to six weeks during the growing season. If you’re growing them in containers, use a potting mix specifically designed for succulents or cacti. These daisies are relatively pest and disease-resistant, making them an ideal choice for low-maintenance gardeners. They are also extremely drought tolerant and an excellent choice for use in xeriscaping.
Leaves and Flowers
The leaves of Mezoo Trailing Red are succulent-like, with a glossy texture and bright green coloration. The flowers are small and daisy-like, with delicate red petals. They bloom throughout the summer months, adding a burst of color to the garden or container. The flowers are held on long, slender stems that rise above the foliage, creating an eye-catching display.
Uses In The Garden
Mezoo can serve various purposes in the garden. They are excellent choices for ground covers due to their low-growing, spreading habit. They create a beautiful carpet of colorful blooms that can transform bare patches of soil into a dazzling display. These hardy plants can withstand dry and sunny conditions, making them ideal for areas where other ground covers may struggle.
Mezoo can also thrive in containers and hanging baskets, providing a burst of color to patios, balconies, and other small spaces. Their compact size and trailing nature make them suitable for hanging containers, window boxes, and mixed container arrangements. These plants also thrive in rocky or sandy soils, making them well-suited for rock gardens or areas with poor soil conditions. Their ability to withstand hot and dry environments makes them a natural fit for these garden settings.
Our Selection of Mezoo
At Martin Garden Center, we grow Mezoo Trailing Red in hanging baskets, and these are generally sold out in early spring. We also attempt to stock 4″ Mezoo throughout the spring and summer, but we are dependent on our vendors so the availability of Mezoo in 4″ can be sporadic.
Does Mezoo Come Back Every Year?
Livingstone Daisies are typically grown as annual. In most climates (including ours) Mezoo is not cold-hardy and will die in the Winter.
How Tall Does Mezoo Grow?
Mezoo typically reaches a height of about 6 to 12 inches and spreads widely, creating a dense and colorful ground cover.