Gazania rigens 'Variegata'
Common name(s): treasure flower
Description: half-hardy perennial; a variegated form of the South African species that is most commonly found in cultivation. Linear, green foliage with cream-white margins. Yellow-orange flowers with a distinct black ring in the center open and close with the sun and bloom almost continously throughout the summer and into autumn. Hardy to 25 F in average soil and to 20 F and lower in lean, gritty soil that stays dry in winter.
Height: to 1 ft. Spread: to 2 ft.
Position: full sun and well-draining soil
Uses: ornamental, cut flower, to attract pollinators
Winter Hardiness: to 20 F and below
Drought: adapted to 3 months of summer drought
Notes: a popular method for enjoying gazanias year after year is to grow them in containers and bring them under an awning, inside or in a garage and place them near a window during winter (or if you are lucky enough to have a greenhouse that is even better). They prefer to be on the dryer side in winter and will easily winter over if protected from frost.