Sweet Sixteen Gerbera (Gerbera × 'Sweet Sixteen')

Sweet Sixteen Gerbera

Gerbera × 'Sweet Sixteen'

Soft ruffled blooms hold warm sunset hues, a cheerful cut flower staple. Ornamental flowering perennial; common name: Sweet Sixteen Gerbera.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight for prolific blooming, avoid intense midday sun in hot climates
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Watering Water deeply when top 2–3 cm of soil is dry; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues
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Temperature Thrives in 15–25°C; protect from frost below 10°C and extreme heat above 30°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Basal rosette of lanceolate, fuzzy green leaves with serrated margins
  • Flower: Large composite blooms with ruffled, peach-pink ray florets surrounding a yellow central disc
  • Stem: Erect, smooth, leafless scapes supporting individual flower heads
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; increase frequency in hot, dry weather

Fertilization

Apply balanced diluted fertilizer every 2 weeks. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can reduce bloom production and cause leaf burn

Banana peel compost tea:Use only fully composted banana peels; soak in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 for root drench; discard solids to avoid pest infestations
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage continuous flowering
  • Remove yellowing or damaged basal leaves to improve airflow
  • Trim back scapes to ground level after flowering season to promote new growth
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic; no harmful effects for cats

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no adverse effects from ingestion or contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Symbolizes cheerfulness and innocence; popular in cut flower arrangements

Usage: Ornamental garden plant, cut flower for floral displays