- White gerbera daisies are a member of the Aster plant family, which has more than 20,000 different plant species. Sunflowers and artichokes are in this family of plants. The white gerbera daisy grows wild in many locations around the world, including South America, Africa and Asia.
- Gerbera daisies were discovered in South Africa by Robert Jameson and named after Traugott Gerber, a German naturalist, in 1889. Gerbera daisies have nothing to do with the baby food of the same name.
- White gerbera daisies are perennials that produce round, white single flowers with a green center on tall thin stems and long slender leaves. Single flowers have a single layer or row of petals that do not overlap. They grow to between 6 and 18 inches tall and are hardy in USDA planting zones 9A through 11.
- Gerbera daisies can be grown outside in the garden or as a potted plant. It is a popular plant for table centerpieces at special occasions or at home to brighten the kitchen or dining room table. The flowers are long lasting in arrangements and bouquets.
- White gerberas are easily grown from seed. Plant the seeds in small pots that have drainage holes in the bottom. Use high-quality, sterile, lightweight potting soil and cover the container with a piece of glass or clear plastic. Place a fluorescent light about 18 inches above the containers. Water them regularly. Do not allow the soil to dry out. Transplant the daisies to bigger pots or outside after the plants reach 6 inches in height. Plant them 12 inches apart in neutral or slightly acidic soil where they will get full sun exposure. Give them fertilizer containing iron or manganese once each month.
- Aphids, leaf miner, thrips and white flies are insects that will attack gerbera daisies. Spray the plants with insecticidal soap to deter thrips and aphids. Pick and dispose of the leaves attacked by leaf miners. Grey mildew, leaf spots and white powdery mildew can also be a problem for gerbera daisies.
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