While a few varieties originate
in tropical Africa, most
Gazanias are indigenous to South
Africa. They're part of the vast
floral treasury of the warm, dry
south- and northwestern Cape
and Namaqualand.
The Gazania is ideal for the
waterwise garden. The plants
always look good but come into
their own during the summer
months when they flower
continuously. They're at their
most beautiful in natural-looking
gardens, with rocks and garden
paths of tree bark that resemble
their natural habitat, and are an
excellent choice for pavements,
thanks to their drought-resistance.
But forget about enjoying their
beauty on dull, cloudy days, when
they furl up their petals into long,
pointed rolls.
Growing tips
Soil Gazanias need good drainage,
so work in lots of compost and add
river sand if you have clay soil.
Leaves The clump-forming
Gazanias have smooth, shiny, dark
green leaves, while the trailing
varieties feature silver green
dentate leaves.
Flowers These bright beauties are
available in a staggering choice
of colours ranging from dark red
to orange and yellow, as well as
shades of pink and cream. The
petals can be of a single colour
or in graded shades with dark
bases and pale tips. The bases
of the petals often feature spots,
dots or darker areas, or even finely
'framed' contrasting colours.
Feeding Gazanias aren't fussy but
will flower even more profusely with
a mulch of compost and tree bark.
Position Full sun is essential.
Maintenance Occasionally snip off
dead blooms to keep them tidy.
Good companions Any other
sun-loving plants but, as Gazanias
are low-growing, they should be
planted in the front of mixed beds.
Pests and diseases Gazanias are
generally strong and healthy but
may develop downy mildew if
deprived of sun and water. Treat
this with a suitable fungicide.
