Gerbera jamesonii aka African Daisy
Taxonomy
Gerbera jamesonii, also known as the Barberton daisy or Transvaal daisy, is a beautiful flowering plant in the Asteraceae family. Indigenous to South Eastern Africa, it was the first species of Gerbera to be scientifically described. The flower head is 3-4 inches wide, with many soft velvet petals that bloom for 4-6 weeks. It is a popular houseplant that is easy to grow and needs regular watering, thriving best in long-lasting, direct light less than 1 foot from a window. Barberton Daisy can also be found in tropical regions of Asia. It is not toxic to cats and dogs and is often described as one of the most beautiful flowers.
Common names
African Daisy, Transvaal Daisy, Flame Ray DaisyHow to care for African Daisy
Difficulty
Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for African Daisy due to its easy-going nature.
Water
African Daisy should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
African Daisy loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
African Daisy thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Flame Ray Daisy.
Dormancy
During the wintertime, it's common for African Daisy to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more.
Toxicity
African Daisy is not known to cause harm to humans or pets.
Humidity
No additional humidity is required for the African Daisy. Plants take in most of their water through their roots, not their leaves, therefore, watering the soil is the most effective way to supply humidity to your plants.
Fertilizer
Repotting the African Daisy is necessary either when it has doubled in size or once every year, whichever happens first. With fresh potting soil replenished annually, the plant will receive all the necessary nutrients, rendering the use of fertilizer unnecessary. Keep in mind that the source of a plant's energy is the sun, not fertilizer.
Region of origin
African Daisy’s native range is Tropical Africa.
More info:
Wikipedia
