The Gerbera Daisy is one of the most popular plants to add to your yard and home. With it’s bright flowers and easy maintenance this is a plant you will come to love. This plant screams spring is here! We’ve included all of the information you will need to have this great plant become a favorite.
Gerbera Daisy – History
Gerbera Daisy is a genus of plants in the Asteraceae family. It was named in honor of German botanist and medical doctor Traugott Gerber (1710-1743). It is native to tropical regions of South America, Africa and Asia. The first scientific description was made by J.D. Hooker in Curtis’s Botanical Magazine in 1889 when he described Gerbera jamesonii. The Gerbera Daisy is also commonly known as the African daisy. It has large striking blooms that come in a variety of colors such as yellow, orange, white, pink or red. The flower heads can be as small as 7 cm in diameter or up to 12 cm.
Gerbera Daisy – Meaning
The Gerbera Daisy, is the fifth most popular flower in the world. It can mean innocence, purity, and cheerfulness, and is due the bright colors it comes in. A potted Gerbera Daisy can quickly lift the spirit and are an ideal way to brighten someone’s day. The variety of available colors has helped it become a favorite choice for many different occasions. It’s also a great addition to your yard for the same reasons.
Gerbera Daisy – Care
Plants will do well with full to partial sun and well draining soil. Make sure to add a little compost when planting to encourage good flower growth. Also, make sure to feed once a week with a fertilizer, we recommend fertilome 20/20/20 to keep your blooms healthy. You can experience a problem with fungal problems but correct planting and watering will keep this from happening. Make sure your plants do not get too moist let them dry between watering. Try to water in the morning so leaves have a chance to dry out during the day to lessen the risk of rot or fungal diseases.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gerbera
http://www.proflowers.com/blog/history-and-meaning-or-garbera-daisies
http://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/gerbera-daisy/growing-gerbera-daisies.htm