Plant guide

Rain daisy.

Dimorphotheca pluvialis

Pronounced dy-mor-fo-THEE-kuh ploo-vee-AY-liss

Also known as Black-Eyed Susan, Cape Rain-daisy, Cape rain daisy, Cape-marigold, Weather prophet, rain daisy, rain prophet, weather-prophet

This charming annual brings a splash of color to sunny spots in your garden. It is well known for its daisy like flowers that open wide in the sun. You will love how easily it fills in empty spaces with its cheerful blooms.

At a glance

Care level: Easy
Plant type: Annual
Light: Full sun
Indoor light: Direct sun
Water: Every 3 to 7 days
Mature size: 12 to 18 inches
Growth rate: Fast

Care

Plant these in a spot that gets plenty of sunshine throughout the day. Keep the soil lightly moist but make sure it drains well to avoid soggy roots. Watch for drooping leaves as a sign that the plant needs a drink.

Watering: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Feeding: Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Pruning: Deadhead spent flowers to encourage the plant to keep blooming.
Repotting: Since this is an annual, you typically do not need to repot it.
Soil: Sandy or well draining soil
Soil pH: 6.0 to 7.5

Safety

Pets: This plant is generally considered non toxic to cats and dogs.

How to identify it

Daisy like white petals
Dark purple or blue centers
Serrated green foliage
Low growing habit

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Science

Family: Asteraceae
Genus: Dimorphotheca
Order: Asterales
Class: Magnoliopsida

Taxonomy resolved against GBIF.

Keep your rain daisy growing

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This guide was generated with AI on November 9, 2026 and checked against GBIF taxonomy. It is general information, not horticultural or veterinary advice. Read about how we build these guides.