Treasure Flower
gazania rigens
Also known as: ["Gazania linearis","Gazania splendens"]
Overview
A vibrant, drought-tolerant perennial with daisy-like flowers that close at night or during cloudy weather.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Gazania |
| Botanical Name: | Gazania rigens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, borders, or containers in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter; cactus or succulent potting mix works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Deadhead flowers weekly during blooming season; light shaping as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless rejuvenating an older plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but blooms less.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun if moved from shade; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent scorching.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate pots for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; place outdoor plants in open, sunny areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers warm conditions (65–85°F or 18–29°C); thrives in mild to hot climates; tolerates light frost but not prolonged cold.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only when actively growing; avoid over-fertilization to prevent salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to remove excess salts.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), humid, and bright indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node; remove dead or damaged growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape and promote bushiness.
Tools
Sharp bypass pruners or scissors, clean gloves.
Checklist
Clean tools; deadhead spent blooms; trim leggy stems; remove yellowing leaves.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture with a finger; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; apply until water drains from the bottom; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil dryness.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or wilting in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause root rot or leaf damage; prolonged cold can be fatal.
Solution: Move potted plants indoors during frost; cover outdoor plants with frost cloth; ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, flower drop, or scorched leaves; may go dormant in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; water deeply in the morning; use mulch to retain soil moisture; increase humidity if indoors.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer correctly; apply to moist soil; avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicGazania rigens is not considered toxic to cats. It does not produce any known toxins that would harm felines upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicGazania rigens is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Humans
Non-toxicGazania rigens is not considered toxic to humans. It is commonly used in ornamental gardens and does not pose a significant risk of poisoning.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Gazania rigens?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Q: Do Gazania flowers close at night?
A: Yes, Gazania flowers typically close at night and during cloudy or overcast days.
Q: Are Gazanias pet-friendly?
A: Yes, Gazanias are non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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