Gazania
Gazania rigens
Family: Asteraceae · Also called Treasure Flower, African Daisy (incorrectly), Melanchrysum rigens, Meridiana ringens, Gorteria rigens
Green & Fresh · Summer–Autumn bloomer
Gazanias are the sun dials of the garden, large, daisy-like flowers in brilliant oranges, yellows, and reds with dramatic dark zones and stripes that open flat to face the sun each morning and close in cloudy weather or at dusk. Each flower is a masterwork of pattern, as if hand-painted with geometric precision.
wealth, fascination, splendor
In the Victorian language of flowers, gazania means “Fascination and splendor”. Named after Theodore of Gaza, a 15th-century Greek scholar who translated botanical texts. In South Africa, gazanias are common garden escapes that line coastal roads. They've become popular worldwide for coastal and drought-tolerant plantings. The dramatic flower patterns, stripes, spots, and contrasting zones, are naturally occurring, not bred.
Did You Know?
Gazania flowers close so reliably in low light that they were once proposed as a biological clock. The dramatic dark markings around the flower center aren't just decorative, they reflect UV patterns visible to pollinators, creating a 'landing pad' guide. The silver-furred undersides of the leaves reflect heat, helping the plant survive extreme temperatures.
Sandy coastal flats, rocky slopes, and dry grasslands of South Africa
Gazania is native to Southern Africa. It naturally grows in sandy coastal flats, rocky slopes, and dry grasslands of south africa.
Scent Profile
“Virtually unscented, gazanias are sun-worshippers that open and close with light, communicating visually rather than through fragrance. The foliage has a faint, resinous green note.”
Quick Reference
- Scientific NameGazania rigens
- FamilyAsteraceae
- Native ToSouthern Africa
- Bloom SeasonSummer–Autumn
- LifespanPerennial
Cultural Significance
Named after Theodore of Gaza, a 15th-century Greek scholar who translated botanical texts. In South Africa, gazanias are common garden escapes that line coastal roads. They've become popular worldwide for coastal and drought-tolerant plantings. The dramatic flower patterns, stripes, spots, and contrasting zones, are naturally occurring, not bred.