Treasure Flower Gazania Tiger Eye = 'Gazte' (v)
![treasure flower [Tiger Eye]](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fplants-admin.emdemapps.com%2Fimages%2Fplants%2F%2Fimages%2F604b538b8f1b8.png&w=3840&q=75)
ABOUT
Gazania Tiger Eye, known commonly as Treasure Flower, is a striking and vibrant plant that boasts a distinctive appearance. The floral display is perhaps its most captivating feature, with daisy-like flowers that exhibit a bold color palette. Each bloom is a masterpiece of warm tones, sporting a sunburst pattern of reddish-brown stripes that radiate from the center towards the petal tips against a backdrop of bright golden-yellow. This pattern resembles the eye of a tiger, inspiring the name 'Tiger Eye'. The petals are broad and overlap each other, creating a full, circular flower head that is highly attractive to garden visitors, including bees and butterflies. Below these attractive blooms, the plant sports a rich tapestry of foliage. The leaves are green with a silvery sheen, sometimes showing a hint of downy texture, and have an elongated, lance-shaped design with edges that may be smooth or slightly serrated. The overall impression of the Gazania Tiger Eye in bloom is of a plant that is both lush and flamboyant, adding a splash of fiery color to any setting in which it grows.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Treasure Flower, Tiger Eye Gazania
Common names
Gazania Tiger Eye = 'Gazte' (v).
ToxicityTo humans
Gazania is generally not considered toxic to humans. There are no significant reports of poisoning from ingesting any part of the Gazania plant. Thus, it tends to be considered safe around adults and children in a garden setting.
To pets
Gazania is also generally considered non-toxic to pets. There is no widespread evidence to suggest that animals, such as dogs and cats, experience any sort of poisoning from consuming parts of a Gazania plant. Consequently, Gazania is usually considered safe to have in gardens where pets may be present.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
0.5 feet (15 cm)
Spread
1 feet (30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Drought Tolerance: Gazania Tiger Eye is highly resistant to dry conditions and requires minimal watering once established.
- Low Maintenance: This plant demands little upkeep, making it ideal for gardeners seeking a low-maintenance landscape addition.
- Sun Loving: Gazania Tiger Eye thrives in full sun, which makes it perfect for sunny garden spots where other plants may struggle.
- Vibrant Colors: The plant's striking, brightly colored flowers can enhance the visual appeal of any garden or landscape design.
- Attracts Pollinators: The blossoms of Gazania Tiger Eye attract beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies, promoting pollination in the garden.
- Seasonal Interest: With its long flowering season, this plant can provide color and interest from spring to the first frost.
- Soil Adaptability: It is adaptable to a variety of soil types, although it prefers well-draining soil, making it versatile for different garden settings.
- Tolerant of Coastal Conditions: Gazania Tiger Eye can withstand salt spray and sandy soils, making it suitable for coastal gardens.
- Good for Ground Cover: The dense growth habit of Gazania Tiger Eye can help prevent weeds and can be used effectively for ground coverage.
- Container Planting: It is suitable for container growing, which allows for its placement on patios, balconies, or other areas where garden space is limited.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Crafting Material: The petals of the Gazania can be pressed and used for creating natural decorative elements in crafting, such as in homemade paper or greeting cards.
- Natural Dye: Gazania flowers can be used to create a natural dye for fabrics or yarns, yielding varying shades depending on the mordant used.
- Garden Photography: Gazanias, with their vibrant colors and patterns, can serve as an inspiring subject for garden photographers and for teaching techniques of macro photography.
- Culinary Decoration: Edible flowers like Gazania can be used to add a splash of color and elegance to dishes and desserts, though they should be eaten sparingly and only when confirmed that they are free of pesticides.
- Watercolor Inspiration: Artists can use the blend of colors in the Gazania petals as inspiration for watercolor paintings or to practice color blending techniques.
- Plant Combinations: In landscape design, Gazania can be paired with succulents or other drought-tolerant plants to create interesting and water-efficient garden beds.
- Children’s Educational Tool: Gazanias can be used in educational settings to teach children about plant biology, pollination, and the importance of biodiversity.
- Eco-Friendly Confetti: Dried Gazania petals can serve as an environmentally-friendly alternative to traditional confetti for celebrations such as weddings or eco-conscious events.
- Insect Attraction: Gazanias can be used in the garden to attract beneficial insects like bees, which are essential for pollination and maintaining a healthy ecosystem.
- Floral Arrangements: Gazania stems and flowers can be included in floral arrangements for a bright and striking addition to bouquets and table centerpieces.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiGazania is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityGazania is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Beauty and Diversity: The Gazania, often known for its striking, vibrant coloration and patterns, symbolizes the splendor and variety of the natural world. Each bloom showcases a unique pattern, much like the eye of a tiger, representing the beauty of individuality.
- Attraction and Admiration: The bright colors of Gazania flowers are designed to attract pollinators, making them a symbol of attraction and admiration. They remind us of the importance of being noticed and appreciated for one’s unique qualities.
- Optimism and Positivity: Gazania flowers open with the morning sun and close in the evening, symbolizing optimism and a positive outlook. They are often associated with the ability to stay positive and look towards the light, even during difficult times.
- Solar Connections: The Gazania's tendency to follow the sun is reminiscent of solar symbols and can denote life, energy, and vitality. They often represent the sun’s power and the warmth it brings to life on earth.
WaterGazanias should be watered moderately. For outdoor plants, irrigation of about one inch per week is typically sufficient, taking into account rainfall. In containers, wait until the top inch of the soil is dry to the touch before watering, using approximately 24 ounces per plant. During the hotter months, water early in the morning to reduce evaporation and ensure deep soil penetration. Gazanias are drought-tolerant, so it's important not to overwater them to avoid root rot.
LightGazanias, commonly known as Treasure Flowers, require full sunlight to thrive, so the best spot for these plants is in an area where they can receive at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day. A south-facing garden bed or window is ideal, ensuring they are not shaded by taller plants or structures.
TemperatureTreasure Flowers prefer warm conditions and tolerate a temperature range from about 40°F to 90°F, although they will thrive best when the temperature is between 60°F and 75°F. They can survive minor frosts but prolonged exposure to temperatures below 30°F can be harmful. Ensure they are placed in a spot with good air circulation to avoid fungal problems.
PruningPrune Gazanias, or Treasure Flowers, to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming throughout the season. Cut back the foliage in late winter or early spring, just before the new growth starts, to keep the plants tidy and rejuvenate them for the growing season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilTreasure flowers prefer well-draining sandy soil amended with organic matter. The ideal pH for Gazanias is slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.1 to 7.8. A mix of two parts sand or loam to one part peat or compost works well to maintain the required drainage and fertility.
RepottingGazanias, commonly known as treasure flowers, rarely require repotting as they are often grown as annuals. If grown as perennials, repotting should be done every 2 to 3 years or when they become root-bound.
Humidity & MistingTreasure flowers thrive in dry conditions and do not require high humidity. They are tolerant to drought and perform best with low to moderate atmospheric moisture.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light, allow soil to dry between watering.
Outdoor
Choose a sunny spot, well-draining soil, water sparingly.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Gazania Tiger Eye begins with seed germination, which occurs in warm, well-drained soil, ideally in early spring after the last frost. Once germinated, the seedlings grow into juvenile plants, developing a rosette of dark green leaves. As the plants mature, they produce long flower stems topped with bright, daisy-like flowers usually in the summer months. These colorful flowers are capable of closing at night and reopening with daylight. After pollination, typically by bees and other insects, the flowers develop into seed heads, disperse their seeds, and the plant completes its reproductive cycle. With proper care, Gazania Tiger Eye often behaves as a perennial, surviving winters in milder climates and returning to bloom in the subsequent growing seasons.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
The Gazania 'Tiger Eye' is commonly propagated by seed. To propagate Gazanias from seed, the best time is in the spring after the danger of frost has passed. Sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mix, lightly covering them with soil. They should be kept moist and in a warm spot with plenty of light. Germination usually occurs within 7 to 14 days. Seedlings can be thinned or transplanted once they've developed a couple of true leaves. This method allows gardeners to produce large numbers of plants relatively easily and economically.
