Gazania
Scientific name: Gazania rigens
☘️ Toxicity: Safe for cats
☀️ Ideal light: Full sun (at least 5–6 hours per day)
💧 Watering: Low to moderate; tolerates short dry periods
The Gazania is a hardy, sun-loving flower native to South Africa, known for its bold, daisy-like blooms in vivid colors. Its flowers open only under direct sunlight, earning it the nickname “dayflower.” It’s an easy-to-grow, cat-safe plant ideal for bright gardens and planters.
Essential care
- Light: Requires full sun for continuous flowering.
- Water: Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid soggy soil.
- Soil: Sandy and well-draining soil (mix of garden soil, coarse sand, and compost).
- Environment: Perfect for outdoor pots, flower beds, and borders. Tolerates heat and wind.
- Fertilization: Monthly during spring and summer with a balanced fertilizer (NPK 10-10-10).
- Pruning: Remove spent blooms to prolong flowering and keep a compact shape.
Flowering
- Season: Spring through fall, peaking in warmer months.
- Duration: Individual flowers last 3–5 days, with continuous blooming for months.
- Tip: The more sun it receives, the more prolific the blooms.
Pests and how to handle them
- Aphids and mealybugs: Control with neem oil or mild soap spray.
- Root rot: Avoid excess watering and ensure good drainage.
Propagation
- Cuttings: Take healthy shoots after flowering and root in moist substrate.
- Seeds: Germinate easily within 10–15 days; bloom in about 3–4 months.
Cat safety
- Classification: Non-toxic to cats (ASPCA).
- Best practice: Prevent cats from digging to preserve soil and roots.
💡 Gazania flowers close at night and on cloudy days — a natural mechanism to preserve moisture.
Quick checklist
- ☀️ Full sun
- 💧 Light watering
- 🪴 Sandy, well-draining soil
- ✂️ Remove old blooms
- 🐾 Safe for cats