Gazania Rigens Facts, Varieties, Growth, Maintenance and Uses

Gazania rigens, also known as trefoil gazania or treasure flower, is a species of flowering plant in the daisy family (Asteraceae). It is native to South Africa and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in warm climates worldwide.

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Gazania rigens is a low-growing, evergreen perennial that forms a dense, mat-like ground cover. It has long, narrow leaves that are green or grey-green and grow up to 3 inches (8 cm) in length. The flowers are large and showy, with bright yellow, orange, or red petals that resemble daisies. The flowers are typically about 5-7 cm (2–3 inches) in diameter and are borne on sturdy stems above the foliage. They typically bloom from spring to fall and are attractive to bees and pollinators.

Gazania rigens is a popular garden ornamental plant and is often grown for its bright, showy flowers and low maintenance requirements. It is often used in gardens as an edging plant, in rock gardens, or as a ground cover in sunny, well-drained locations. It is also popular in containers and hanging baskets. Gazania rigens thrives in well-drained, sandy, or gravelly soils and prefers full sun exposure. It is drought-tolerant and can withstand high temperatures and dry conditions, making it a good choice for hot, dry climates.

See also: Zinnia elegans varieties and plant care tips

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Gazania rigens: Key facts

Name	Gazania rigens
Common names	Gazania, treasure flower
Family	Asteraceae
Origin	South Africa
Soil	Sandy, well-draining soil
Temperature	12-16°C
Sunlight	Full sun
Flowers	White, cream, yellow, gold, orange, pink and dark red
Leaves	Long and narrow
Indoor/Outdoor	Outdoor

Gazania rigens: Varieties and physical description

Gazania rigens is a popular garden plant known for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in warm, sunny conditions. It is often used as a ground cover or in container gardens and is a popular choice for rock gardens and xeriscaping. There are several varieties of Gazania rigens available, including:

African Sunrise

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This variety has bright yellow flowers with orange centres and grows to about 6 inches.

Daybreak Mix

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This is a mix of various Gazania rigens varieties with flowers in shades of yellow, orange, pink, and red.

Sunbathers Mix

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This variety mixes orange, yellow, and white flowers with dark centres. It grows to be about 8 inches tall and 12 inches wide.

Sunrise Deep Orange

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This variety has deep orange flowers with yellow centres and grows to a height of about 8 inches.

Sunburst Mix

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This variety mixes yellow, orange, and red flowers with dark centres. It grows to be about 8 inches tall and 12 inches wide.

Tiger Stripes

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This variety has orange and yellow flowers with dark brown and black stripes on the petals. It grows to be about 8 inches tall and 12 inches wide.

Gazania rigens: How to grow the plant?

Gazania is a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant plant well-suited for gardens in warm climates. It is native to South Africa and is known for its bright, daisy-like flowers that bloom from late spring to early fall. Here are some tips for growing and caring for Gazania:

Planting: Plant Gazania in well-draining soil in a location that gets full sun. It is a heat-loving plant that thrives in hot, sunny spots. A place with at least six hours of direct sunlight each day is ideal. When planting, space the plants about 12 inches apart. In colder climates, Gazania rigens may need to be brought indoors or grown as an annual.
Propagation: Gazania rigens can be propagated by seed or by dividing the roots. To propagate by seed, sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mix and keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate. To propagate by dividing the roots, gently separate the plant’s roots into smaller sections and plant each section in a separate pot.
Fertilising: Gazania does not require much fertilisation. A balanced all-purpose fertiliser applied at the beginning of the growing season is sufficient. Fertilise Gazania every two to four weeks with a balanced fertiliser, following the instructions on the package.
Deadheading: To encourage continuous blooming, remove wilted flowers regularly by pinching or snipping them off at the base of the flower stem.
Overwintering: Gazania is not frost-tolerant, so it will need to be protected or brought indoors during the winter in colder climates. It can be left outdoors in warmer climates and will go dormant during the winter.

Gazania rigens: Maintaining the plant

Gazania rigens is a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant plant that is well-suited for hot, dry conditions. Here are some tips for taking care of Gazania rigens:

Plant Gazania rigens in well-draining soil in a location that receives full sun.
Water the plants regularly, but allow the soil to dry out between watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Apply a balanced fertiliser once a month during the growing season.
Deadhead (remove spent flowers) regularly to encourage new blooms.
Protect Gazania from heavy rain and strong winds, which can damage the flowers.

Gazania rigens is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it may be prone to fungal infections if the soil is constantly wet or the plant is overcrowded. Be sure to space the plants adequately and avoid over-watering to prevent this.

Gazania rigens: Is this plant toxic?

Gazania rigens, also known as treasure flowers or African daisies, are generally considered non-toxic to humans and animals. It is not listed as toxic by any major source of information on toxic plants, including the ASPCA and the University of California, Davis.

However, as with any plant, it is possible that some individuals may experience an allergic reaction after coming into contact with it. If you experience any symptoms after handling or coming into contact with Gazania rigens, it is important to seek medical attention. It is always a good idea to exercise caution when handling any plant, especially if you are unfamiliar with it, and to keep it out of reach of children and pets.

Gazania rigens: Uses

Gazania rigens is a flowering plant native to South Africa. It is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant for its bright, daisy-like flowers and ability to thrive in sunny, dry conditions.

Some common uses for Gazania rigens include:

Landscaping: Gazania rigens are often used as a ground cover or border plant in gardens and landscaped areas. It is drought-tolerant and requires little maintenance, making it a popular choice for xeriscaping (landscaping with plants that require minimal water).
Containers: Gazania rigens can also be grown in pots or containers, making it a suitable choice for those with limited space or for adding a splash of colour to balconies or patios.
Cut flowers: The bright, cheerful flowers of Gazania rigens make it a popular choice for cut flowers. The flowers last well in arrangements and can be dried in long-lasting bouquets.
Pollinators: Gazania rigens flowers are attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, making them a good choice for gardens that support wildlife.

Overall, Gazania rigens is a versatile and easy-to-grow plant valued for its bright, colourful flowers and low maintenance requirements.

FAQs

What is Gazania rigens?

Gazania rigens, also known as treasure flower or African daisy, is a flowering plant native to South Africa. It is a low-growing perennial with bright, daisy-like flowers that bloom in shades of yellow, orange, and red.

How do I care for Gazania rigens?

Gazania rigens is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. It can tolerate some shade but does best in fully sunny, well-drained soil. Water the plant regularly, but avoid overwatering as it is prone to root rot. Gazania rigens can be prone to pests such as aphids and slugs, so be sure to monitor for any signs of infestation and treat them as necessary.

Can Gazania rigens be grown in containers?

Yes, Gazania rigens can be grown in containers. Choose a large enough pot to accommodate the plant's root system and have good drainage. Be sure to water the plant regularly, but do not let the soil become too wet, as this can cause root rot.

Is Gazania rigens toxic to pets?

Gazania rigens is not toxic to pets, but as with any plant, it is always a good idea to keep plants out of reach of pets to prevent accidental ingestion. If you are concerned about the safety of a particular plant, it is always best to consult with a veterinarian or a qualified plant expert.

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