Gerbera plant or “Gerbera Jamesonii” belongs to the “Asteraceae” family. It is commonly known as “Gerbera”, “Barberton Daisy” or the "African Daisy". The Gerbara plant is an ornamental plant and is named after the German naturalist “Traugott Gerber”.

With a year round flowering period, the Gerbera is a very commonly used flower in the making of bouquets that hold pride of place for most occasions. Found in a variety of colours ranging from white, pink, orange, purple, yellow to red. Gerbera flowers are also found in double shades making for very beautiful flowers. The bright colours really stand out beautifully and the pastel shades are known for their sober understated elegance.

Gerbera plants grow up to a height of 18 to 24 inches with vibrant flowers spreading over 4 to 10 inches in diameter. The leaves of the Gerbera plant are green in colour and circular in shape. Gerbera plants need good sunlight and enough water. Gerbera plants generally require very little care and are free of pests. One must be careful not to water them too much or else they would be prone to rotting of the stem or fungus that can adversely affect the plant.

If cared for properly the Gerbera flower lasts for anywhere between 15 days to a month. Gerbera plants are grown for the beautiful cut flowers and are generally grown in huge green houses. Gerbera plants can be grown from seeds or cuttings. For potted plants it is best to use a mixture of loam, sand and an organic mix like cow dung. A healthy plant will continue to flower for a period of 3-4 years.