Gazania × rigens [red form]


Common name(s): treasure flower


Description: perennial (requires protection from frost); a gorgeous dark red form of the African treasure flower. Flowers open and close with the sun and bloom almost continuously from late spring into late autumn (and almost year round in a greenhouse). Bred for long-lasting cut flowers. Hardy to 25 F in average soil and to 20 F and lower in lean, gritty soil that stays dry in winter. 


Height: to 1 ft. Spread: to 2 ft.


Position: full sun and well-draining soil


Uses: ornamental, cut flower, to attract pollinators


Winter Hardiness: to 20 F and below


Drought: adapted to 2.5 months of summer drought

Care: no special care needed during the growing season, spent flowers can be removed if desired

Notes: a popular method for enjoying gazanias year after year is to grow them in containers and bring them under an awning, inside or in a garage and place them near a window during winter (or if you are lucky enough to have a greenhouse that is even better). They prefer to be on the drier side in winter and will easily winter over if protected from frost.