There is perhaps no showier flower than the Gazania for a sunny bed, border or rockery. The plants are low- growing a tendency to sprawl, the leaves are silvery or grey below and the 3in. Daisy-like flowers are avail-able in a wide array of colours with contrasting zones. They are perennials but are easily damaged by frosts-it is better to treat them as half hardy annuals. The flowers close in the evening.
VARIETIES: Some nurserymen offer single colours such as ‘Mini-Star Yellow’ or ‘Red Hybrid’. You are much more likely to be offered a multi-coloured seed mixture such as ‘Harlequin’, ‘Treasure Chest’ or ‘Sundance Mixed’.
SITE & SOIL: Any well-drained garden soil will do – a sunny location is essential. All the Gazanias grow well in seaside areas.
PLANT DETAILS: Height 9-15 in. Spacing 1 ft. Flowering period June – October.
PROPAGATION: Plant out when danger of frost is past.