Gazania
Gazania (Gazania spp.)
Scientific Name: Gazania spp.
Common Names: Treasure Flower, African Daisy
Native to: South Africa and other parts of Southern Africa
Lighting Requirements: Full sun. Gazanias thrive in bright, direct sunlight and produce their best blooms under full sun exposure.
Height: 6 to 12 inches
Width: 12 to 18 inches
Winter Look: In colder climates, Gazania is grown as an annual and dies back after frost. In frost-free regions, it can act as a short-lived perennial.
Seasonal Interest: Spring to fall, with a peak bloom period in late spring to summer. Some varieties may continue blooming into the fall.
Drought Tolerance: High. Gazania is very drought-tolerant once established and prefers dry, well-drained soil.
Soil Requirements: Well-draining, sandy or loamy soil, moderately fertile. Gazanias tolerate poor soil and are relatively low-maintenance.
pH Range: 6.0 to 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 9 to 11 (treated as an annual in colder zones)
Deer Resistance: Moderate. Deer generally avoid Gazanias, but they may nibble on the plant if food is scarce.
Attracts: Bees, butterflies, and other pollinators
Potential Issues: Susceptible to spider mites and mildew. They can suffer from poor blooming if overwatered or planted in too-rich soil.
Notes: Gazania is a popular ornamental plant known for its bright, daisy-like flowers in various colors, including yellow, orange, red, and pink, often with contrasting centers. These flowers open in the sunlight and close in the evening, adding dynamic interest to gardens. Gazanias are commonly used in bedding, containers, and hanging baskets due to their compact size and ability to tolerate poor soil and dry conditions. They are ideal for low-maintenance and water-wise gardens. Regular deadheading encourages more blooms throughout the growing season.
My biggest struggle with these is overwatering.Â
Fun fact: Gazania is named after the 15th-century Greek-Italian scholar Theodorus Gaza.