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Gazania rigens - from Mortellaros
Gazania
Treasure Flower
Gazania rigens
Gazania rigens, commonly called gazania or treasure flower, is a low-growing, warm-season perennial often grown as an annual in north Texas, but is a perennial in central to south Texas. Native to South Africa, it is valued for its vivid daisy-like flowers that open in full sun and close at night or during cloudy weather. Blooms are most often shades of orange, yellow, red, bronze, and bi-color patterns, typically appearing from spring through fall during warm conditions. The colors can be so vivid, that they almost appear to be plastic flowers.
In the Texas landscape, gazania performs best in full sun and excels in hot, dry environments where many other flowering plants struggle. It is well suited for Central and South Texas, particularly in areas with sandy or rocky soils, and is less reliable in humid East Texas or regions with heavy clay and frequent rainfall. Gazania is commonly used as a groundcover, edging plant, in mass plantings, containers, or spilling over retaining walls. Mature plants typically reach 6–10 inches tall and spread 12–18 inches wide; spacing plants 12 inches apart allows for good coverage without overcrowding.
Gazania prefers well-drained soils and performs best in neutral to slightly alkaline conditions, making it compatible with many Texas soils. Poor drainage is its biggest limitation—constantly wet or poorly drained sites can quickly lead to root rot. Once established, gazania is highly drought tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation. It is deer resistant and non-toxic, making it a low-maintenance choice for commercial and residential landscapes.
While gazania tolerates light frost, it is not reliably cold-hardy in North Texas and may decline or die back during extended freezes. In mild winters, plants may overwinter and resume blooming in spring, especially in protected locations. During winter, reduce irrigation and avoid fertilization; good drainage is critical to survival during cold, wet periods.
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Vivid bright bloomer |
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Full sun |
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Drought tolerant |
Flower Color:White, Red, Orange, Yellow |
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Height:6-10 in |
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Spread:12-18 in |
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Spacing:12 in |
USDA Hardiness Zone 8a
Characteristics & Attributes
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Deer Tolerance
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Exposure
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Habit
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Soil pH Preference
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Water Needs
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Tolerates Poor Drainage
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