Gerber Daisy Facts

Brighten a sunny spot in the flower bed with the gerber daisy. This colorful flower blooms repeatedly throughout the growing season to serve as a garden accent or a cut flower. A native of South Africa, the daisy's scientific name is Gerbera jamesonii, but it is commonly called Transvaal, Barberton or African daisy.

Description

The gerber daisy plant is about 12 inches wide, with dark green foliage. Its velvety 2.5- to 4-inch-diameter flowers, available in a varied palette, resemble large daisies borne on a 12- to 18-inch stems. Varieties include both single and double forms.

Culture

Space plants 12 to 15 inches apart in a full-sun location with well-drained loamy or sandy soil. Fertilize regularly in the summer to encourage blooming.

Water

Water during dry spells but do not overwater; damp conditions or soil in the crown may cause rot.

Propagation

Divide a large clump into smaller plants or start from seeds sown indoors before the last frost.

Hardiness

Grow year-round as a herbaceous perennial in subtropical regions from USDA hardiness zone 9 to 11. In colder climates, grow as an annual or dig up and pot for inside culture.

References

• Florida Home Grown: Landscaping; Tom Maccubin; 1987.
• Floridata
• Dave's Garden: Gerbera Daisy

Resources

• Gerbera.org