Expert: C.L. Fornari - 6/22/2009

Question
I recently purchased a beautiful deep maroon gerber daisy, and I noticed when I got it home that it is a little freak of nature! The stems are conjoined and each stem has a joined flower head as well. When I looked down into the plant, each new flower is doing the same thing! What has caused this, and is it harmful to my other plants?

Answer
Cristy,
This is normal for this plant. I don't know if it's a result of breeding particular colors or not, but in any case it isn't anything that will spread to your other plants. Many people have noticed joined stems on Gerbera daisies - a favorite subject for photographers!

FYI - this plant doesn't do well in hot weather, so if you live where it gets hot in July you might keep the plant in morning sun and afternoon shade. Also, whether the plant is outside or inside, water from the bottom. This plant is prone to crown rot if the soil around the base of the plant is kept too moist. When the plant is dry, but before it wilts, set the pot in a dish of water and let the soil get hydrated. Once the soil is moist move the pot to a saucer where it can drain and don't water again until the soil is once again dry.

I hope this helps,
C.L.