Barberton daisy is a herbaceous perennial flower in the aster family with showy flowers and is native to SE Africa. This plant is the parent to many of the hybrid gerberas (Gerbera x hybrid) now available with many cultivars. The genus was named in honor of German botanist and medical doctor Traugott Gerber. The species was named for Dr. Robert Jameson who found the plant near Barberton South Africa.
The flowers appear above a rosette of leaves on tall petioles and are usually in reds (rarely yellow, orange, white, pink). Most blooms occur in spring and fall but they may send up flowers at any time. In warmer climates, the leaves may persist through winter.
This plant prefers moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter in full sun. It should be kept moist and fertilized lightly. The crown should be level with the soil. Use this plant in borders, containers or in groups.