While both commonly referred to as "daisies," African Daisies (Osteospermum) and Gerbera Daisies (Gerbera jamesonii) are distinct genera with significant botanical differences. Understanding these distinctions requires an examination of their taxonomy, morphology, growth habits, and environmental preferences.
African Daisies belong to the genus Osteospermum, which is part of the Asteraceae (daisy or sunflower) family. They are native to southern Africa. Gerbera Daisies belong to the genus Gerbera, also within the Asteraceae family, but they are a separate genus. They are also native to subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and South America, with the popular ornamental varieties largely stemming from South African species like Gerbera jamesonii. Despite sharing a family, they are not closely related enough to hybridize and represent separate evolutionary branches.
The foliage of these two plants is a key identifying feature. Osteospermum typically features semi-succulent, spatula-shaped or lanceolate leaves that are often slightly toothed or lobed. The leaves are generally a lighter, greyish-green color and can be somewhat fleshy to the touch. In contrast, Gerbera Daisies produce a basal rosette of large, lobed, or pinnate leaves that are deeply toothed and have a darker green color. The leaves are not succulent but are often leathery or hairy (pubescent), growing directly from the crown at the soil level.
Although both have the classic composite "daisy" flower structure consisting of ray florets (the "petals") and disk florets (the center), there are clear differences. Osteospermum flowers often have a unique, spoon-shaped or tubular structure to their ray florets, particularly in newer cultivars. The central disk is typically a bluish, metallic, or dark purple color. A fascinating trait of many Osteospermum species is that their flowers close at night or on overcast days.
Gerbera flowers, on the other hand, have broad, flat, and strap-like ray florets that create a much fuller, more symmetrical bloom. The central disk is flatter and can range in color from yellow to greenish, dark brown, or even black. Gerbera blooms are held singularly on long, leafless, and sturdy scapes (stems) that rise directly from the basal rosette, making them ideal for cut flowers. The flower heads of Gerberas are also generally larger and more vibrantly colored in the horticultural varieties.
Osteospermum plants are typically tender perennial sub-shrubs or woody-based herbaceous perennials in warm climates. In colder regions, they are most often grown as annuals. They have a mounding or slightly trailing growth habit, with flowers emerging from the tips of the stems among the leaves.
Gerbera Daisies are herbaceous, clump-forming perennials. They lack a woody structure and grow as a tight cluster of leaves from a central crown. The flower stems are separate from the foliage, emerging directly from the crown. While perennial, they can be short-lived and are often treated as annuals or houseplants in non-tropical climates due to their sensitivity to crown rot and cold.
Osteospermum thrives in full sun and well-drained, even sandy or gritty, soil. They are highly drought-tolerant once established, reflecting their South African origins. They prefer drier conditions and are susceptible to root rot in overly wet soil.
Gerbera Daisies also require excellent drainage but prefer consistently moist (not waterlogged) soil. They are less drought-tolerant than Osteospermum. While they need plenty of light, they often appreciate some protection from intense afternoon sun in very hot climates. They are heavy feeders and benefit from regular fertilization to support their large, showy blooms.
