At a glance
- Light
- Bright light, some sun
- Typical interval
- Every 6 to 8 days (summer)
Every 8 to 12 days (winter) - Climate
- 18–24 °C
- Humidity
- 40–60 %
- Pet safety
- Pet-safe (non-toxic)
- Scientific name
- Gerbera jamesonii
When and how much water
Water Gerbera daisy when the top 3 cm of soil feel dry. In summer that’s typically every 6 to 8 days. In winter, slow down to every 8 to 12 days. Use room-temperature water and let any excess drain. Never leave the pot sitting in standing water.
Adjust the timing for the light at the plant, the pot’s size and material, and the humidity indoors. Terracotta dries faster than glazed ceramic.
Light and placement
Gerbera daisy needs bright light and a little gentle direct sun, such as morning sun. Strong midday sun can scorch the leaves. Place it close to an east- or west-facing window.
Feeding
Feed Gerbera daisy every 14 days while it’s actively growing. Use a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer at half the strength on the label, and only on soil that’s already damp. Feeding dry roots can scorch them.
When growth pauses, skip the fertilizer and let it rest.
Temperature & humidity
Gerbera daisy is comfortable between 18 and 24 °C. Below 10 °C the leaves start taking damage, so keep it clear of cold drafts and unheated rooms.
It does best at 40–60% humidity. It doesn’t need misting.
Common problems
Yellowing, drooping, and dry edges often point to watering or drainage. Compare the signs before changing the routine.
Find what’s wrong
Toxic to pets?
No. Pet-safe.
Gerbera daisy is non-toxic to cats and dogs. Safe to keep in a home with pets.
Pet-safety information in the JungleBook uses ASPCA reference data where available. It is reference information, not veterinary advice.
Common questions
How often should I water a Gerbera daisy?
Water your Gerbera daisy (Gerbera jamesonii) when the top 3 cm of soil feel dry. In summer, that’s typically every 6 to 8 days. In winter, slow down to every 8 to 12 days.
How much light does a Gerbera daisy need?
Gerbera daisy needs bright light and a little gentle direct sun, such as morning sun. Strong midday sun can scorch the leaves. Place it close to an east- or west-facing window.
Is Gerbera daisy safe for cats and dogs?
Gerbera daisy is non-toxic to cats and dogs. Safe to keep in a home with pets.
Why are my Gerbera daisy’s leaves turning yellow or drooping?
On a Gerbera daisy, yellowing and soft growth usually mean overwatering: watch for yellowing leaves, mushy crown, or rot at soil line. Let the soil dry further between waterings and check drainage. If you see wilting leaves, crispy leaf edges, or drooping flower stems instead, it’s likely thirsty. Water a little more often. With Botanicaly Pro, Botanicaly Bot can help assess visible signs from a photo and suggest possible causes.
Sources5 references
- Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew: Plants of the World OnlineAccepted name · classification · native range
- North Carolina State University Extension Gardener Plant ToolboxDescription · container care · overwintering · insects, diseases, and other plant problems
- Clemson Cooperative Extension Home and Garden Information CenterCulture · overwintering · irrigation · fertilization · pests and diseases
- Royal Horticultural SocietyPlant profile · position · soil · moisture · under-glass · pests and diseases
- ASPCA Animal Poison ControlScientific name · dog, cat, and horse toxicity classification
Last reviewed: 2026-09-21
