Gerbera jamesonii, also known as the Transvaal Daisy, is an upright, evergreen perennial cherished around the world for its brightly colored petals. This beloved bloom is part of the Asteraceae family, a member of the plasters and daisy family, and can be classified as a perennial. Boasting a variety of sizes and colours, Gerbera jamesonii can be seen in full bloom throughout the growing season, typically peaking in early summer to late fall. These beautiful flowers are considered to be some of the most prized ornamental flowers nationally and worldwide, and make great cut flowers as well as focal points in various container displays. Planting Gerbera Daisy in your garden or home can truly turn heads, making them an absolute must-have for gardeners and plant lovers alike.
How to Plant and Grow Gerbera Daisy
Gerbera Daisy must be planted in the right conditions for it to grow its best. The most ideal location to plant Gerbera Daisy is in a spot that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. Make sure to choose a spot for the flower that has well-draining soil – sandy soil can be amended with compost or peat to improve its structure. In addition, Gerbera Daisy will also require a consistent moisture level; be sure to water it at least twice a week in dry conditions and keep its soil slightly moist throughout the growing season. It is best to avoid over-watering. Fertilize your flower once in the spring with an all-purpose fertilizer.
Meaning and Symbolism
The meaning behind the Gerbera Daisy flower is one of joy and beauty. According to flower dictionary, Gerbera Daisy is a symbol of love, innocence, purity and cheer; they are thought to bring happiness and relaxation to their admirers. Additionally, the origin of the flower’s name is attributed to a German physician and botanist, Traugott Gerber, who traveled to and collected plants from Russia, Persia, and Turkey. In the 17th and 18th centuries, Gerbera Daisy came to the western world and have grown in popularity and become a staple of many gardens. Additionally, the flower was named by German botanist and naturalist, Carl Ludwig von Willdenow, in honor of Traugott Gerber.
History, Mythology, and Religious Significance
The Gerbera Daisy’s vibrant and cheery look has made it a favorite for hundreds of years and has been used as a symbol in many religions and cultures, including Buddhism and Hinduism. In Buddhism, Gerbera Daisy carries symbolisms of purity and innocence, while Hinduism associates the flower the sun god, Surya, and the divine energy he holds. Thus, the flower is often used as a symbol of sacrifice and devotion in Hindu culture. Historically, the simple and bold nature of the flower has been celebrated in art, poetry, and literature around the world.
Flower Varieties and Their Defining Characteristics
There are two main species of Gerbera Daisy, Gerbera jamesonii and Gerbera viridifolia. Gerbera jamesonii is the species of Gerbera Daisy most commonly grown. This species can reach up to around 8-14 inches tall with a similar spread. The foliage is bright, jagged, and deeply lobed, with medium green leaves supported by strong flowering stems. Gerbera Daisy flowers come in a variety of colours ranging from bright red, to orange, yellow, pastel pink, to white, and bi-coloured.
Gerbera viridifolia is also known as the African Daisy and is a shorter, more petite species of Gerbera Daisy, reaching only around 4-6 inches tall. This species is native to south-eastern Africa and can be distinguished by its undersized, yellow-green foliage with wider petal blooms.
How to Pot and Repot
Poting and repoting your Gerbera Daisy is essential to ensure ample growth and survival. When potting your Gerbera Daisy, be sure to use a light, sandy soil that is well drained. A terracotta pot is also recommended, as it is much more breathable than plastic; your soil and plants will stay drier and not get waterlogged. Be sure to use a pot that is slightly larger than the one your flower was previously in, to give it enough growing room and space for the Gerbera Daisy’s roots to properly develop. Water your Gerbera Daisy once it is potted, ensuring the soil stays slightly moist but not wet. Repotting should be done annually, at which time it is also recommended to refresh the soil, as this can supply your flower with more nutrition and oxygen.
How to Prune
Pruning your Gerbera Daisy plants can be done in order to promote new growth and help reduce any instances of disease. Pruning should be done after the initial blooms of the previous season have gone, and before the next growing season begins. Begin by pruning all the dead and damaged stems, as well as those with spotted foliage or weak, discoloured flowers. Once you have pruned away all the dead stems, go ahead and prune off the remaining healthy stems by four fifths; this should stimulate new bloom and growth in the upcoming season.
How to Propagate
Propagating your Gerbera Daisy is a great way to increase the number of plants you have in your garden, and will also help keep your plants strong and vibrant. The best way to propagate a Gerbera Daisy is through division. To do this, go ahead and gently remove the plant from its original pot and remove all of the excess soil. Then, look for the plant’s root network. Separate the plant into two or three even divisions, being sure to cut away any extra, dead root material. Re-plant the divisions back into their own pots with pre-moistened and fertilized soil, and water your plants thoroughly.
Common Pests and Diseases
The most common pests and illnesses that affect Gerbera Daisy are aphids, white flies, mites, thrips, and powdery mildew. Aphids can be a persistent pest, often attacking your Gerbera Daisy through its foliage as well as its flowers. To treat it, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil, both of which can be found at your local garden center. Thrips and white flies can be treated in the same fashion; however, mites require a stronger pesticide. A natural pesticide such as pyrethrum or diatomaceous earth can help get rid of mites. Lastly, powdery mildew can be treated with a fungicide to help protect your plant from the fungus and to help reduce the mildew already present.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I care for Gerbera Daisy?
A: To care for a Gerbera Daisy, be sure to provide it with at least six hours of direct sunlight per day, water it consistently, use an all-purpose fertilizer once in the spring, and prune it annually.
Q: How long do Gerbera Daisy blooms last?
A: The blooms of Gerbera Daisy can last up to three weeks, depending on environmental conditions and how often they are watered.
Q: Are Gerbera Daisy poisonous?
A: Gerbera Daisy is not known to be poisonous. However, it is still a good idea to keep it away from pets and children as contact with the sap of the plant may cause skin irritation.
Fact Sheet
| Gerbera Daisy | Gerbera jamesonii |
|---|---|
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Plant Type | Perennial |
| Mature Size | 8-14 inches tall |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun |
| Soil Type | Well-draining soil |
| Soil pH | 6.0-6.5 |
| Bloom Time | Early summer to late fall |
| Flower Color | Variety of colors ranging from red, orange, yellow, pastel pink, to white, and bi-coloured |
| Hardiness Zones | 9-11 |
| Native Area | South-Eastern Africa |
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