Gerbera Daisy, Transvaal Daisy

Gerbera jamesonii Bolus ex. Hook f. and hybrids

GUR-bur-ah jame-es-SOAN-ee-eye

Asteraceae

Explanation of name: Genus named for German naturalist Traubott Gerber (DAV). The specific epithet refers to Robert Jameson who discovered the species (DAV).

Natural range: South Africa

Recognition:  Bedding plants with leaves crinkly, irregularly lobed, and in a basal rosette, and having large (to 7”) bright showy flower heads available in many colors,  sometimes as doubled heads, or crested doubles (UF Circ. 527)

Landscape uses:  As explained in UF Circ. 527, the plants are prone to rotting from excess moisture, and the crown sinks, which facilitates decay. They are best planted on elevated mounds, and the plants must be replanted raised periodically to compensate for the sinking crown.  They are susceptible to Mn and Fe deficiencies on sandy soils.  Dead leaves and spent flowers must be removed.

From UF Circ. 527:

“Gerberas grow best in well-drained, sandy soils amended with organic matter for nutrient and water retention. One to two inches (2.5 to 5.1 cm) of peat or other organic material can be incorporated into the soil before planting. Dolomitic limestone at a rate of 3 pounds per 100 square feet (1.5 kg/10 m²) also should be incorporated before planting.”

“Gerberas respond to high fertility levels and should be fertilized on a regular basis. A complete fertilizer (12-4-8, 15-5-15, etc.) should be applied at a rate of 1-1/2 pounds per 100 square feet of bed area every month during the growing season (March-October for north Florida and February-November for central and south Florida). Gerberas respond best to controlled release or organic fertilizers which slowly release nitrogen over a long period of time.”