Terracotta Gazania (Gazania krebsiana), is well known for its prevalence in the Western and Northern Cape provinces. It is one of Namaqualand ‘s most well-known and striking perennial plants with it’s orange flowers, flowering from early spring until the end of Summer. The flowers attract birds, bees, butterflies, ants and beetles to the garden. The dark green leaves are shiny on top and soft, or velvety, on the underside. The plant reaches about 15cm in height and 20 cm in width, making it an excellent ground-cover. They form tufted clumps and are excellent as pioneer plants.
Common names: terracotta gazania (Eng.); gousblom, botterblom, rooi gazania (Afr.)
Growing Terracotta Gazania
Indoor Sowing: Autumn.
Direct Sowing: Autumn.
- The best time to sow the seeds is in mid Autumn, preferably in April.
- All Gazania species and cultivars are easy to establish by mixing the seeds with sand to obtain a better distribution and planting them directly in loosened soil.
- After sowing, the soil must be irrigated immediately to ensure that the seeds come in close contact with the soil for germination purposes.
- The seeds germinate after 4-6 days.
- Alternatively, sow the seeds first into a sandy medium and cover slightly with sand to a depth of 2 mm.
- Water daily using a fine water spray and keep in a sheltered environment.
- As soon as the seedlings are strong enough, they may be planted in the garden.
Medical Disclaimer
Information is for educational and informational purposes only and may not be construed as medical advice. The information is not intended to replace medical advice or treatment offered by healthcare professionals.