Treasure flower, also called Gazania, is a member of the family Asteraceae. It is a perennial flower, meaning it will come back for several years, with the proper care. They mature to be a smaller size, approximately 8-12 inches tall and wide.
Etymology
The common name “Treasure Flower” for Gazania may have originated from the treasure-like appearance of the plant’s colorful blooms. The scientific name “Gazania” is believed to have been named after the Greek physician, Theodorus Gaza, who translated works of ancient Greek physicians into Latin.
Family
The family type for Treasure Flower (Gazania) is Asteraceae.
Asteraceae, commonly known as the aster, daisy, or sunflower family, is a large family of flowering plants that includes more than 32,000 species distributed throughout the world. This family is known for its composite flower heads, which consist of many individual flowers that are surrounded by a ring of bracts. Gazania, commonly known as Treasure Flower, is a member of the Asteraceae family, and is characterized by its colorful, daisy-like flowers that bloom in a wide range of colors, including shades of orange, yellow, pink, and red.
Soil
Treasure Flower (Gazania) thrives in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil pH between 6.0 to 7.0 is considered ideal for the plant. This range provides the necessary nutrients and minerals for the plant to grow and thrive. It is important to note that the soil should not be too heavy, as this can cause waterlogging, leading to root rot. Adding compost or peat moss to the soil can improve its texture and drainage. The soil should also be kept moist but not overly wet, as excessive moisture can cause the roots to rot. The plant can be grown in containers or in the ground, provided that the soil is suitable for its growth.
Temperature
Treasure Flower (Gazania) grows best in warm temperatures ranging from 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 29°C). It is sensitive to frost and cannot tolerate temperatures below 30°F (-1°C). Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that the plant is grown in an environment with a stable temperature. If the temperature drops suddenly, the plant may become damaged, and the blooms may wilt. It is recommended to grow this plant in a warm, sheltered spot to protect it from any sudden drops in temperature. In addition to temperature, humidity also plays a role in the plant’s growth. It thrives in a moderate to low humidity environment, and high humidity may lead to fungal diseases or leaf rot.
Humidity
Treasure Flower (Gazania) can tolerate moderate humidity, but it is important to avoid overwatering the plant as it can lead to root rot. The plant prefers a dry and arid environment, making it ideal for regions with low humidity levels. It is recommended to allow the soil to dry out completely before watering the plant again. Overwatering can cause the plant to suffer from yellow leaves, wilting, and poor growth. To maintain proper humidity levels, it is advisable to plant Treasure Flower in well-draining soil, as waterlogged soil can create a humid environment around the roots.
Water
Watering Treasure Flower (Gazania) once a week is generally sufficient, but it is important to adjust the frequency and amount of water depending on the weather conditions and soil moisture levels. During hot and dry weather, the plant may require more frequent watering to prevent the soil from drying out completely. It is important to avoid overwatering the plant, as it can lead to root rot. It is recommended to water the plant deeply and thoroughly, making sure the water reaches the root zone, but not letting the soil become soggy. In general, it is better to water the plant in the morning or early afternoon, rather than in the evening, as this allows the foliage to dry before nightfall and reduces the risk of fungal diseases.
Light
Treasure Flower (Gazania) thrives in full sunlight and requires a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight a day to grow and bloom properly. When planting, it is recommended to choose a location that receives full sunlight, preferably in the morning, and avoid planting in areas with shade or partial shade. If the plant does not receive adequate sunlight, it may not bloom as well or may grow weak and leggy. It is also important to note that in hot summer regions, some afternoon shade can be beneficial to prevent the plant from getting too hot and wilting.
Fertilizer
To promote healthy growth and blooming, it is important to provide proper nutrients to the Treasure Flower plant. Fertilizing the plant every 4-6 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer can be beneficial. This will help ensure that the plant has access to the necessary nutrients to grow healthy foliage and produce abundant blooms. A balanced fertilizer contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are essential nutrients for plant growth. It is important to follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging, as over-fertilization can damage the plant. In addition to fertilization, adding organic matter to the soil, such as compost or well-rotted manure, can also improve soil fertility and plant growth.
Common Pests and Diseases
One of the main pests that can affect a Treasure Flower is the aphid. Aphids can be identified by their distinct pear-shaped bodies, and they cause damage to flowers by sucking the sap from the leaves and stems. If left untreated, aphids can cause wilting, yellowing of leaves, or stunted growth.
They can be treated organically with insecticidal soaps and diluted neem oil. It’s important to note that when using any type of pesticide, it should be tested on a small area of the plant before applying to the entire plant.
Another pest to look out for is the mealybug. Mealybugs are small, white scale insects that feed on flower’s sap, causing yellowing of leaves and the eventual death of the plant. They can be treated with insecticidal soaps or diluted neem oil.
Common fungal diseases that can affect Treasure Flowers include powdery mildew and root rot. Powdery mildew is a white, powdery fungus that forms on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. This can be treated with a traditional fungicide. Root rot is a fungal disease that is caused by overwatering and compact soil. In the case of root rot, the best course of action is to remove affected plants and replant in a new location with freshly amended and well-draining soil.
FAQ
Q: What colors do Gazanias come in?
A: Gazania flowers come in stunning colors, such as red, purple, yellow, and white.
Q: How often should I water my Treasure Flower?
A: Treasure Flowers should be watered deeply and once per week, depending on the conditions of the climate and soil.
Q: What type of sun exposure do they need?
A: Treasure Flowers should be grown in full sun for best results.
Fact Sheet
| Common Name | Treasure Flower |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Gazania rigens |
| Plant Type | Annual or Perennial |
| Mature Size | 6-12 inches tall |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun to partial shade |
| Soil Type | Well-draining, sandy soil |
| Soil pH | 6.0 to 7.0 |
| Bloom Time | Late spring to fall |
| Flower Color | Orange, pink, yellow |
| Hardiness Zones | 9-11 |
| Native Area | South Africa |
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