Gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii), the Transvaal daisy, is a popular flowering plant grown for its large, vivid daisy-like blooms on long, leafless stalks. Flowers come in dazzling reds, oranges, yellows, pinks, whites and bicolours, each lasting well in the garden and as a top-ranking cut flower. A rosette of lobed, slightly hairy green leaves sits at the base. Loving bright light, cool to warm temperatures and rich, well-drained soil, it flowers repeatedly given good care. Ideal for pots, beds and balcony displays, gerbera offers clean, bold colour and is a florist favourite, rewarding growers who avoid crown rot from overwatering.
Specifications
| Family |
Asteraceae |
| Native region |
South Africa |
| Mature height |
25-45 cm |
| Mature spread |
30-45 cm |
| Growth rate |
Moderate |
| Foliage |
Basal rosette of lobed, slightly hairy leaves |
| Flower colour |
Red, orange, yellow, pink, white, bicolour |
| Flower season |
Spring through autumn, repeat blooming |
| Climate zone |
Subtropical to warm temperate |
Care guide
| Sunlight |
Bright light to morning sun; some afternoon shade in heat |
| Watering |
Water at the base; keep moist but never soggy |
| Soil / mix |
Rich, well-drained soil; keep crown above soil |
| Temperature |
Best 18-28C; protect from extreme heat and frost |
| Humidity |
Moderate with good airflow |
| Fertilizer |
Regular balanced or bloom feed in growing season |
| Pruning |
Deadhead spent flowers and remove old leaves |
| Repotting |
Repot yearly; plant crown slightly proud of soil |
| Propagation |
Division or seed |
| Pests & problems |
Aphids, thrips, whitefly and powdery mildew |
| Toxicity / safety |
Non-toxic to people and pets |
| Difficulty |
Moderate |
Uses
Grown for pots, beds and especially as a premium long-lasting cut flower for bouquets and arrangements. A bright, cheerful choice for balconies and patios.
Growing tips
In India grow gerbera in bright light with afternoon shade in peak summer; plant the crown slightly above soil level, water at the base only, and deadhead regularly for repeat blooms.