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Description
Gerbera Jamesonii, also known as Barberton Daisy or Transvaal Daisy, is a species of flowering plant in the family Asteraceae. Native to South Africa, it is a popular ornamental plant grown for its showy and colorful flowers, which come in a range of shades including red, orange, yellow, pink, and white. The flowers are large, measuring up to 10 centimeters in diameter, and have a central disk surrounded by ray petals. Gerbera Jamesonii blooms from spring to fall, and can be grown both indoors and outdoors.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Gerbera |
| Species | Gerbera Jamesonii |
Appearance
Gerbera Jamesonii is a herbaceous perennial that grows up to 45 centimeters in height. It has a rosette of basal leaves that are up to 30 centimeters long and deeply lobed. The flowers are held on long, erect stems that rise above the foliage. Each flowerhead consists of a central disk surrounded by ray petals that are either single or double. The flowers come in a range of colors including red, orange, yellow, pink, and white, and can have different markings or patterns on the petals.
Care Guide
Gerbera Jamesonii is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does require some attention to ensure it thrives. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:- Water: Gerbera Jamesonii likes to be kept evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid getting water on the foliage, as this can lead to fungal diseases.- Fertilization: Feed Gerbera Jamesonii every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid using a high-nitrogen fertilizer, as this can lead to lots of foliage growth at the expense of flowers.- Soil: Gerbera Jamesonii prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite works well.- Sunlight: Gerbera Jamesonii needs bright, indirect light to thrive. Place it near a south or west-facing window, or under grow lights if you’re growing it indoors.- Hardiness Zones: Gerbera Jamesonii is hardy to USDA zones 8-11. It can be grown as an annual in cooler climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
Gerbera Jamesonii can be susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including:- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling on the foliage. Keep the plant well-hydrated to discourage spider mites from taking hold.- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can cluster on the tips of new growth and the undersides of leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the foliage. Keep the plant well-ventilated and avoid getting water on the foliage to prevent powdery mildew from taking hold.
Habitat
Gerbera Jamesonii is native to South Africa, where it grows in grasslands and savannas. It prefers well-draining soils and bright, indirect light.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Gerbera Jamesonii?
A: Water Gerbera Jamesonii when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Q: Can Gerbera Jamesonii be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Gerbera Jamesonii can be grown indoors as long as it receives bright, indirect light.
Q: What should I do if my Gerbera Jamesonii gets powdery mildew?
A: Keep the plant well-ventilated and avoid getting water on the foliage to prevent powdery mildew from taking hold.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Gerbera Jamesonii?
A: Feed Gerbera Jamesonii every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Gerbera Jamesonii:- Gerbera hybrida- Gazania rigens- Osteospermum ecklonis- Arctotis fastuosa
References
– “Gerbera Jamesonii.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 31, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c680.- “Gerbera Jamesonii.” The Spruce. Accessed August 31, 2021. https://www.thespruce.com/gerbera-daisy-growing-profile-1902749.- “Plant Profile: Gerbera Jamesonii.” Fine Gardening. Accessed August 31, 2021. https://www.finegardening.com/article/plant-profile-gerbera-jamesonii.
