Barberton Daisy

Barberton daisy is the common name for the Gebera Jamesonii, also known as the Transvaal or Gerbera daisy.

The large range of striking flower colors has enabled this flowering pot plant to become a popular house plant choice for a number of years.

Description

Native to South Africa this species is a perennial in warmer climates but in cooler countries (temperate regions) it’s grown as an annual and flowering pot plant. There are many varieties and hybrids sold that are more compact in growth than the basic type. The basic type has stalks which grow up to 2ft tall that can become quite lanky and unattractive.

The attractive bright colored flowers has made Gebera daisies an excellent bridal bouquet choice. For those that prefer to have them closer to their skin – they are also a popular floral tattoo choice.

Flowering: The Barberton daisy is available in many colors from white through to bright red and different shades as well. The hybrids sold in garden centers produce two or more single stemmed stalks with a single flower sitting at the top. The capitula (flower head) is approximately 3 – 4 inches wide and displays multiple soft petals from a centrepiece of stamens, anthers, and carpels that look outstanding close up.

Grown indoors they can flower at any time of the year and each flower lasts up to about 4 – 6 weeks. Growers deadhead flowers that are spent to encourage new flowers. Once all flowers have died down you are likely to throw your Gerbera away or place it inside the greenhouse for it’s leaves and in the hope the following year it might produce blooms (not likely though).

Foliage: These daises have quite attractive rhomboid (diamond) shaped leaves with jagged or wavy edges. Keep in mind these leaves are papery thin and easily damaged. When leaves become damaged they need to be removed and then the plant can become unattractive.

Level of care: Gerbera jamesonii daises are easy to care for, whether grown indoors or outdoors. They’re tender plants that will not tolerate frost. Indoors they require some sunlight, moist soil and average temperatures, then nature takes care of the rest.

Facts

Origin:	South Africa.
Names:	Barberton, Gerbera, Transvaal Daisy (common). — Gebera Jamesonii (botanical/scientific)
Max Growth (approx):	24in tall.
Poisonous for pets:	Non toxic for cats, dogs and horses.

Barberton Daisy Care Instructions

Temperature:	Average temperatures of 55 – 75°F (13 – 24°C) are suitable.
Light:	A lover of direct sunlight and bright windowsills. Place close to a south, east or west facing window to provide enough sunlight.
Watering:	It’s best to keep the soil moist at all times. Once the soil becomes slightly dry to the touch provide water straight away or the plant will begin to wilt very quickly.
Soil:	A peat based potting mix with 2 parts peat and 1 part perlite is suggested.
Fertilizer:	While flowering, feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks.
Humidity:	Gerbera’s quite like above average humidity levels, although average is absolutely fine.
Propagation:	These are mostly propagated with seeds although the parent plant can also be divided or root cuttings can be used.