Native to South Africa and Namibia, the Gazania is a true sun-worshiper. It craves as much daily sunshine as it can get! But if you want these beauties to thrive in your garden, there are a few more things to keep in mind when picking the perfect spot.
Keep Those Blooms Open
The real magic of Gazanias happens during their long blooming season, which stretches all the way from April to October. During this time, they constantly push out new flowers. They’re often called “Treasure Flowers” or “Midday Gold,” and for good reason: they actually close up their petals every evening. They’ll only open back up the next day if they get enough direct sunlight. That’s why a bright, sunny spot isn’t just a suggestion for these plants—it’s a must!
Getting the Soil Just Right
To keep those flowers popping and the plant healthy, Gazanias need a steady supply of moisture. However, they are pretty sensitive to “wet feet.” If they sit in standing water, they’ll quickly develop root rot. The secret is well-draining soil that you keep consistently moist. I find that a light watering in the morning or evening works best. If your garden soil is a bit heavy or compacted, give it a good loosen up before planting. You can even mix in a generous amount of sand—Gazanias actually prefer leaner, sandy soil over nutrient-rich dirt.
Don’t Forget About Winter Storage
Since Gazanias are not cold-hardy, they won’t survive a frosty winter outdoors. You’ll need to transplant them into pots and bring them inside once the temperature drops. To keep them happy until spring, find a spot in your home that is:
- Frost-free
- Cool (ideally between 40°F and 50°F)
- Bright and well-lit
