Gerbera

The bold daisy flowers come in a wide array of colours – reds, oranges, yellows, purples, pinks and white – often rich and vibrant but also softer tones. These long-lasting flowers stand above dense clumps of foliage.

Gerberas enjoy a sheltered, sunny spot, either indoors or out, in fertile, well-drained soil or compost. They are happy in temperatures between 10–20°C (50–68°F).

Most dislike winter cold and wet. Tender gerberas won't survive below 5°C (41°F), and even hardy forms are best kept frost free. In damp conditions they are prone to rotting.

Gerberas make great cut flowers, so if you grow them outdoors, do pick them for indoor displays too. They generally last in a vase for over a week, especially in cooler temperatures. If the flowers start to droop, remove the lower section of stem and refill the vase with fresh water.