Gazania

Description

Gazania, also known as African Daisy or Treasure Flower, is a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae. Native to Southern Africa, Gazanias are popular ornamental plants that are commonly grown for their large, colorful flowers and lush foliage. Gazanias are perfect for garden beds, borders, rock gardens, and containers. These plants bloom in the summer and fall, adding vibrant colors to your garden.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Gazanias have a clumping growth habit and can grow up to 30 cm in height and 60 cm in width. They have gray-green, narrow leaves that are about 10 cm long. The flowers are daisy-like with a single row of petals that come in various colors, including orange, yellow, pink, red, and white. The flowers close at night and on cloudy days, but open up again when the sun returns.

Care Guide

Gazanias are low-maintenance plants that are easy to care for. Here are some tips:

• Water: Water regularly but make sure the soil is well-drained. Overwatering can cause root rot.
• Fertilization: Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring and summer.
• Soil: Gazanias prefer well-drained, sandy soil. Amend the soil with compost before planting.
• Sunlight: Gazanias love full sun and need at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
• Hardiness Zones: Gazanias can thrive in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Gazanias are generally resistant to pests and diseases, but they can be affected by:

• Aphids: These small insects can damage the leaves and flowers. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
• Spider mites: These pests can cause yellowing and browning of the leaves. Use neem oil or insecticidal soap to control them.
• Fungal diseases: Gazanias can be susceptible to fungal diseases like leaf spot and powdery mildew. Make sure to water the plants from below and avoid getting the leaves wet. Use fungicides to control the diseases.

Habitat

Gazanias are native to Southern Africa, where they grow in rocky, sandy soils in dry areas. They are drought-tolerant and can survive in harsh conditions. Gazanias can also grow in coastal areas and tolerate salt spray.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Gazanias be grown from seeds?

A: Yes, Gazanias can be grown from seeds. Sow the seeds indoors in the spring and transplant them outside after the last frost.

Q: Can Gazanias be propagated through cuttings?

A: Yes, Gazanias can be propagated through stem cuttings in the summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in moist soil.

Q: How often should Gazanias be fertilized?

A: Gazanias should be fertilized with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring and summer. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging for the recommended frequency.

Q: Do Gazanias attract pollinators?

A: Yes, Gazanias are attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

Related Plants

• Aster
• Marguerite Daisy
• Black-eyed Susan
• Coneflower

References

• https://www.thespruce.com/gazania-plant-profile-4843298
• https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/gazania/gazania-treasure-flower.htm
• https://plantcaretoday.com/gazania.html