Gerbera jamesonii (Gerbera Daisy)

Deservedly popular throughout the world, Gerbera jamesonii (Gerbera Daisy) is an elegant, upright, evergreen perennial, often grown as an annual, forming a basal rosette of tongue-shaped, dark green, lobed leaves, 10 in. long (25 cm). Blooming any time of the year (as perennial) with peaks in early summer and late fall, ravishing single or semi-double daisy-like flowers, up to 4-5 in. across (10-12 cm), are borne singly atop slim yet sturdy, naked stems well above the foliage. The flowers are available in a wide range of colors, including red, yellow, orange, white, and pastel colors.

Gerbera jamesonii is one of the most popular ornamental flowers in the world, both as a cut flower and as a pot plant. Grown in gardens worldwide, it is wonderful for creating a dazzling display for months.

• Grows up to 24 in. tall (60 cm) and 18 in. wide (45 cm).
• Thrives in full sun in organically rich, medium moisture, well-drained soils. Welcomes some afternoon shade in hot summer climates. Excellent drainage is critical. Water deeply and let the soil become nearly dry before watering again. Fertilize monthly for best flower production.
• Gerbera is a lovely addition to beds and borders or containers. Great for edging too.
• Remove dead flowers regularly to encourage further flowering. When cutting flowers for arrangements, slit the bottom inch of the stem before placing it in water.
• No serious insect or disease problems. Keep an out for aphids, leaf miners, whiteflies, powdery mildew, leaf spot or root rot.
• Propagate by seed, division in early spring or by basal cuttings, or heel cuttings from side shoots, in summer. Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date. Plant outdoors after the last frost date. To avoid rot, keep the root crown slightly above the soil level.
• Native to South Africa.