Gazania rigens Kiss Gold F1 - Treasure flower

Gazania Kiss Gold F1 is a new variety selected for its compact habit and extraordinary floribundity. Not even cool weather can stop this plant blooming. Its small size contrasts with its large, golden daisy-like flowers, a radiant colour further accentuated by a small dark circle around the heart. They bloom tirelessly, from spring to the first frost, bringing life to sunny borders and planters. Outside of Mediterranean regions, it can be easily grown as an annual plant.

Gazania rigens, also known as treasure flower, belongs to the large Asteraceae family. It is native to South Africa and Mozambique. The type species bears sun-yellow flower heads around an orange heart speckled with black and brown. It is an herbaceous perennial plant, typically grown as an annual in cool and humid climates. 

Gazania Kiss Gold F1 is a compact cultivar from the Kiss series, with flowers that have increased in size and brilliance. The plant forms a small clump of leafy stems within a few weeks, not exceeding 20cm (8in) in all directions. The early and prolonged flowering lasts from May to October if faded flowers are regularly removed. Solitary inflorescences resembling large daisies, 6 to 7cm (2 to 3in) in diameter, form at the ends of the branched stems. Each one has a double row of ligulate outer florets arranged in a staggered pattern, with a golden yellow colour and dark brown markings at the base. This collar of outer florets surrounds a centre composed of tubular central florets, giving it a velvety appearance. The flowers tend to close when the sun is hidden. The basal leaves are ovate and leathery. They are fairly dark green and shiny on the upper surface, and silver-grey on the underside.

Gazania Kiss Gold F1 should be planted in small groups along the edges of flower beds, paired with taller and monochromatic plants. It thrives in rock gardens and on banks, as well as in raised beds. Kiss Gold F1 is perfect in pots on a patio. It must be planted in full sun, otherwise the flowers will not open. Busy gardeners will appreciate it for its beauty and simplicity. It prefers sandy or very well-drained soils. It can withstand long periods of drought, but it does not tolerate stagnant moisture. Water it sparingly but regularly and it will be even more beautiful.