Treasure Flower Gazania rigens 'Variegata' (v)
ABOUT
Gazania rigens 'Variegata', commonly known as treasure flower, is a vibrant and showy plant, renowned for its striking and brightly colored daisy-like flowers. These blossoms exhibit a range of hues, typically consisting of bold yellows, oranges, pinks, reds, or whites, often with a contrasting darker ring or spots near the base of the petals, radiating out from the center. The standout feature of the 'Variegata' variety is its foliage. The leaves are distinctively patterned, with creamy white variegation that edges the green leaf blades. This variegation can appear as streaks or a solid border along the leaf margin, adding to the ornamental value even when the plant is not in bloom. The flowers open and close with the sun, unfurling in its presence during the day and closing in the evening or on cloudy days. Each bloom is supported on a singular stem, rising above the foliage and creating a dynamic and appealing contrast between the bright flowers and the variegated leaves below. Soft and slightly hairy to the touch, the plant's foliage has a texture that is as engaging as its appearance. The leaves themselves are lance-shaped, contributing to the overall visual impact with their spiky form. Despite the omission of specific measurements, Gazania rigens 'Variegata' is a low-growing plant, forming a clump of foliage from which its dazzling flowers emerge, creating a carpet of color that is ideal for ground cover, borders, or as a vibrant addition to rock gardens and coastal landscapes. Its resilient nature and striking appearance make it a beloved choice for gardeners seeking to add a splash of color to their outdoor spaces.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Treasure Flower, Variegated Gazania
Common names
Gazania rigens 'Variegata', Gazania splendens 'Variegata'.
ToxicityTo humans
Gazania, commonly known as treasure flower, is not well-documented for toxicity in humans. Generally, it is not considered highly toxic, and there are no widespread reports of poisoning from this plant. However, like many plants, it may cause mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested and skin irritation in some individuals. If any parts of the plant are ingested, watch for symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, and consult a medical professional for advice.
To pets
Treasure flower is not known to be toxic to pets. It is not listed among the common toxic plants for animals such as dogs and cats. However, ingestion of plant material can sometimes lead to mild gastrointestinal upset in pets, such as vomiting or diarrhea. If your pet eats part of a treasure flower and exhibits these symptoms, it is advisable to consult with your veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Mixed
Flower color
Mixed
Height
6-12 inches (15-30 cm)
Spread
6-12 inches (15-30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
9-11
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Drought tolerance: Gazania can survive in dry conditions, making it suitable for water-wise gardens.
- Low maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, making it an easy choice for gardeners of all levels.
- Colorful blooms: Produces vibrant, daisy-like flowers that can add a pop of color to any garden setting.
- Sun-loving: Thrives in full sun, perfect for sunny spots where other plants may struggle.
- Attracts pollinators: The bright flowers attract bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.
- Soil adaptability: Can grow in a variety of soil types, as long as they are well-draining.
- Seasonal interest: Flowers from late spring to early fall, offering extended visual interest throughout the growing season.
- Ground cover: Spreads to form a mat, which can help reduce soil erosion and suppress weeds.
- Coastal resilience: Tolerates salt spray, making it ideal for seaside gardens or landscapes.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Gazania rigens 'Variegata' can be used in themed gardens, such as seaside or desert landscapes, due to its drought tolerance and bright, sun-loving nature.
- These flowers can serve as vibrant ground covers that reduce soil erosion on slopes and banks, providing both beauty and a practical gardening solution.
- The plant is often used in container gardens or hanging baskets, adding a splash of color with its variegated foliage and daisy-like flowers.
- Gazania 'Variegata' can act as a natural indicator of sunlight levels, as the blooms open fully in strong sunlight and close in the evening or on cloudy days.
- It can be used for interspersing in paving cracks and crevices in a garden setting, to create a whimsical and naturalistic design element.
- In floral art, the bright and long-lasting flowers can be used for creating colorful, fresh flower arrangements.
- Gazania flowers can contribute as a food source for pollinators such as bees and butterflies, enhancing biodiversity in the garden.
- The plant's ability to thrive in poor soil makes it an ideal choice for urban gardening projects, where soil quality can be compromised.
- They're used as living mulches to suppress weeds and retain soil moisture during dry spells since their foliage forms a dense mat.
- Gazania 'Variegata' can be planted alongside vegetable gardens to attract beneficial insects that help in pest control.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Gazania is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Gazania is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Beauty: The striking appearance of Gazanias, which feature bold and vibrant colors, often symbolizes natural beauty and the power of visual appeal.
- Cheerfulness: Gazanias, also known as treasure flowers, are associated with positivity and joy, reflecting their bright flower faces that follow the sun.
- Perseverance: As sun-loving plants that close up at night or during overcast days, Gazanias symbolize persistence and the ability to endure challenging conditions.
- Optimism: The way Gazanias open up with the morning sun is often seen as a metaphor for optimism and looking towards the light or the good in life.
- Diversity: The variety of colors found within Gazania blossoms can represent diversity and the beauty of different qualities coming together harmoniously.
WaterTreasured for their showy flowers, Treasure Flowers, or Gazanias, require moderate and consistent watering, particularly during their active growing and blooming season in the spring and summer. They should be watered thoroughly, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged, as they do not tolerate standing water well. Typically, watering once a week with approximately 16 ounces of water per plant should suffice, but this can vary with environmental conditions - less frequent watering is necessary if the weather is cool or cloudy. During the winter dormant period, reduce watering to every other week, always checking the soil moisture before adding more water.
LightTreasure Flowers thrive in full sun exposure and require at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day to flourish. The ideal spot for a Gazania is in a location where it can bask in bright and unfiltered light. These plants are perfect for sunny borders, rock gardens, or containers placed in a south-facing position where the intensity of the sun will encourage plentiful and vibrant blooms.
TemperatureGazanias, also known as Treasure Flowers, prefer warm and temperate conditions, thriving in temperatures between 50°F and 75°F. They can withstand temperatures as low as 30°F for short periods but prolonged exposure to cold can be detrimental. The ideal growing condition is a consistently warm environment without the risk of frost, so in areas with cold winters, Gazanias should be protected or brought indoors.
PruningPruning Treasure Flowers is essential to promote bushier growth and to prolong the blooming period. Deadheading, or the removal of spent flowers, should be done regularly to encourage new blooms. Pruning can be done at any time during the growing season, but it’s best to do a more thorough trim in the spring to remove any dead or damaged foliage from the winter.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Treasure Flower (Gazania rigens 'Variegata') should be well-draining, light, and sandy with some organic matter. A mix of two parts soil, one part sand, and one part compost or peat would be ideal. The pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingTreasure Flowers do not require frequent repotting and can thrive in the same pot for several years. Repotting every 2-3 years is sufficient unless the plant has outgrown its current container or the soil has depleted.
Humidity & MistingTreasure Flower prefers a dry environment and does not require high humidity levels. Typical indoor humidity conditions are usually suitable for this plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in sunny spot; water sparingly.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-draining soil, minimal water.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleGazania rigens 'Variegata', commonly known as Variegated Treasure Flower, begins its life cycle as a seed, which, when sown in fertile, well-draining soil and exposed to warm temperatures, will germinate. Once the seedlings emerge and establish true leaves, they enter the vegetative growth stage, developing a robust root system and foliage. As the plant matures, it enters the flowering stage, producing daisy-like flowers with variegated petals that open in sunlight and close at night or during overcast days. After pollination, often aided by insects attracted to the blooms, the flowers produce seeds, which complete the reproductive stage. If conditions allow, these seeds can fall to the ground and start a new life cycle, or they can be collected for controlled propagation. As a perennial in warmer climates, the plant may enter a dormancy phase during colder periods, reducing growth until favorable conditions return, while in cooler climates it is often grown as an annual.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Gazania rigens 'Variegata', commonly known as Treasure Flower, is typically propagated by seed during spring or by division during the late spring to early summer months when the plant is actively growing. The most popular method of propagation is through seeds which is a straightforward process. To propagate by seed, sow them directly into a well-draining soil mix, at a depth of about 1/8 inch (approximately 3 millimeters), in a container or a seed starting tray. Keep the soil moist but not wet, and maintain a temperature within the range of 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit (18 to 21 degrees Celsius) for optimal germination. Germination usually occurs within 7 to 14 days, after which the seedlings can eventually be transplanted outdoors after the risk of frost has passed.
