Barberton Daisy, Transvaal Daisy
gerbera jamesonii
Also known as: ["Barberton Daisy","Transvaal Daisy"]
Overview
A vibrant, daisy-like flowering plant native to South Africa, prized for its large, colorful blooms.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Gerbera |
| Botanical Name: | Gerbera jamesonii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot near bright window or outdoor garden bed with good drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed throughout the growing season; deadhead flowers regularly.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on removing dead or damaged parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to morning sun with afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to direct sun to prevent scorching; provide shade during peak heat; rotate indoor plants for even light exposure.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Avoid intense midday sun; use sheer curtains for filtered light; place near east-facing windows.
Watering
every 5–7 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, loamy, organic-rich potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Ideal range 60–75°F (15–24°C); cooler nights (55–60°F) promote flowering; protect from frost.
Avoid drafts; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from extreme fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth (spring and summer), monthly in fall and winter
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of crowns.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant once rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip spent blooms just above the next set of leaves; trim yellow or brown foliage at the base.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers and yellow leaves to encourage continuous blooming and maintain plant health.
Tools
Clean pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Check for dead flowers; sanitize tools; prune carefully; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the pot; promotes fresh soil and growth.
Checklist
Choose new pot; prepare fresh soil; inspect roots; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf discoloration, bud drop, or stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage in freezing conditions.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; use a heat mat; cover outdoors to protect from frost.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, and water early in the day to combat heat stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute properly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicGerbera jamesonii is not considered toxic to cats. It poses no significant risk if ingested or touched.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicGerbera jamesonii is not considered toxic to dogs. It poses no significant risk if ingested or touched.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicGerbera jamesonii is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse effects when ingested or touched.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Gerbera jamesonii?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, ensuring good drainage to prevent root rot.
Q: Does Gerbera jamesonii require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade, needing at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.
Q: Can Gerbera jamesonii be grown indoors?
A: Yes, but it requires bright light and good air circulation to flourish indoors.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 5–7 days, allowing soi |
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