How to Grow Gazania Plants: Vibrant, Drought-Tolerant Blooms

How to Grow Gazania Plants

Native to South Africa, Gazania (Gazania splendens) brings a burst of exotic color to hot, dry gardens. These low-growing annuals form clumps of medium-green foliage topped with striking, daisy-like flowers in brilliant shades of red, orange, yellow, pink, white, and bicolors. The blooms open wide in sunlight and close each afternoon around 3 p.m., adding a dynamic element to beds, borders, rock gardens, and containers.

Gazania thrives where other plants struggle—baking sun, sandy soil, and even coastal salt spray. It’s also a popular houseplant for bright indoor spaces.

Plant Propagation

Gazania is grown from seed. Sow directly in the garden after all danger of frost has passed, or start indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost date. Plant seeds ⅛ inch deep in fine garden soil or seed-starting mix. Germination occurs in 10–15 days at 60–65°F. Space plants 9–12 inches apart. After a few years, crowded clumps can be dug up and divided. Stem cuttings also root readily.

How to Grow Gazania

• Light: Full sun is essential for best flowering.
• Soil: Prefers average to poor, sandy, well-drained soil.
• Water: Extremely drought-tolerant once established. Water only during prolonged dry spells.
• Fertilizer: Feed every 4–5 weeks with a balanced, general-purpose fertilizer.
• Maintenance: Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering. Bring containers indoors before the first fall frost to enjoy as houseplants.

Bloom Time

Summer through fall.

Pests & Diseases

Gazania is largely trouble-free. Insect and disease issues are rare; treat only if they appear with appropriate organic or chemical controls.