Gazania rigens Kiss Bronze - Treasure flower

Gazania Kiss Bronze is a large South African daisy with a diameter of 6 to 7cm (2 to 3in), forming large concentric circles in shades of orange, copper, rust, amber, and vermilion. It is exceptional for its long flowering period (from May to October) and for the stunning beauty of its inflorescences.

Gazania, also known as treasure flower, belongs to the Asteraceae family. Its daisy-like silhouette is found throughout tropical Africa. The standard variety is sun yellow with an orange centre speckled with black and brown. It is a perennial cultivated as an annual in Europe.

Gazania Kiss Bronze is a cultivar from the Kiss series, whose flowers have increased in size and voluptuousness. Each one has a double row of externally positioned ligules in a staggered pattern.

The collar of outer florets forms concentric circles of different widths, with the base of the ligules maculated with violet brown. The central florets, which are fully tubular, give a velvety appearance to the bronze heart. The flowers thus take on the appearance of a mandala with geometric figures. It almost seems as if a painter has leaned over and adorned them with the finest of brushes. 

 
Gazania is a relatively short plant, reaching a maximum height of 30cm (12in). The basal leaves form large tufts from which numerous stems emerge, each carrying a solitary head. The tough leaves are medium green on the upper side and silvery-grey on the underside.

Gazania should be planted in small clusters along the edges of flower beds to enjoy their essence, combined with taller and monochrome plants. They highlight banks by emphasising their contours. Similarly, they are perfect in containers on a patio. They must be positioned in full sun, otherwise the flowers will not open. Busy gardeners will appreciate them for both their beauty and simplicity. They grow in all types of soil, with a preference for sandy, well-drained soil, and can withstand long periods of drought. However, they do not tolerate stagnant humidity. Water them sparingly but regularly and they will be even more beautiful.