Scientific name: Gerbera jamesonii Bolus
Family: Asteraceae (commonly known as the daisy family)
Category: A biennial herb, commonly cultivated as a flowering plant
Morphological Characteristics:
Gerbera jamesonii is a biennial herb belonging to the Asteraceae family. Native to Europe, it typically grows to a height of about 90 cm, with natural flowering occurring from April to May. In greenhouse conditions, it can bloom as early as February. The flower varieties include shades such as pan-blue, blue-violet, deep-purple, snow-green, pink-red, and rose-red. There are also dwarf varieties suitable for flower beds, reaching heights of 40–50 cm. Due to its strong growth and upright stems, it is often used for cut flowers in commercial cultivation.
Origin and Distribution:
The cornflower is native to Europe, particularly Central Europe. In Germany, it thrives on hillsides, fields, near houses, roadsides, and along waterways, creating beautiful natural landscapes.
Growth Habits:
It has strong cold tolerance and can be grown in open areas in East China, while in North China, it requires winter protection. It prefers fertile, loose soil and full sunlight. It can be sown directly in the field or grown in greenhouses. For cut flower production, seeds are usually sown in August, transplanted in September, and harvested in February of the following year. In warmer regions, it's often sown in August–September, overwintered outdoors, and planted in early spring for summer blooms. In the northeast, it's typically grown in greenhouses.
Due to its deep taproot and few lateral roots, transplanting should be done carefully when seedlings are young, as they are sensitive to transplant shock. Therefore, direct seeding in spring is often preferred. Cornflowers also need to be planted densely; otherwise, their growth may be poor.
Propagation and Cultivation:
Gerbera is primarily propagated by seeds. It does not tolerate transplanting well, so it’s important to keep the root ball intact when planting. Apply basal fertilizer before planting, and maintain proper watering during growth to prevent root rot. Applying liquid fertilizer monthly can help promote healthy growth. Since the stems are weak, pinching back at the seedling stage encourages bushier growth and shorter plants.
Applications:
High-type varieties are ideal for flower beds, floral arrangements, roadside plantings, and lawns. They add an elegant touch with their vibrant, natural beauty. They are also popular for cut flowers. Known as the national flower of Germany, the cornflower symbolizes happiness and can often be seen along European roadsides and in fields, with its delicate blue blossoms emitting a subtle fragrance. Its blue petals are a unique visual element that enhances both tea and garden aesthetics.
Health Benefits:
Cornflower is known for its beauty, calming effects, digestive benefits, and diuretic properties. Cornflower hydrosol is a gentle, natural cleanser for the skin, and flower water can help nourish and maintain skin health. It aids digestion, relieves rheumatic pain, and can help with stomachaches, gastritis, and respiratory issues like bronchitis. However, it is heat-sensitive and difficult to grow in warm regions like Taiwan during the summer, unless cultivated in high-altitude, cooler areas.
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