Gazania rigens is a native of South Africa that is easy and fun to grow. It sports a daisy-like flower that can be as large as four inches across. Flowers bloom in solid colors from bright yellow to orange, red, pink and white, or in wild color combinations with splashy stripes or rings of contrasting colors.
Gazanias make fine bedding plants, perfect for the front of the border. The leaves are finely lobed, dark green above gray, and grow in compact clumps 8 to 10 inches tall. Each clump supports a number of flowers held above the leaves on 6 to 10 inch stems.
Gazania is considered an annual in the north but is a short-lived perennial here in the south. If you deadhead the flowers and toss them where you want more, they will re-seed readily. Gazania is a tough little plant that prefers full sun, will tolerate all soils and thrive with moderate watering. It will bloom profusely through fall, winter and into late spring, then flower intermittently during the hottest months of summer before bringing forth another profuse flowering in the fall. The plant is almost pest-free and can take hard freezes of short duration; otherwise, use protection.
Gazania's flowers are light sensitive and close in the evening and on cloudy days. They transplant easily, even when in full bloom. Gazania is sold as a bedding plant in many nurseries. You can also sow seed outside after the last frost or start indoors.
Betsyanne Tippette, Smith County Master Gardener
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