A Just Bloom Guide to Gerbera Varieties
Gerberas are one of the most popular and vibrant flowers used in floral arrangements due to their bold colors, large blooms, and long-lasting appeal. They belong to the Asteraceae family and genus Gerbera, and they are native to tropical regions of Africa, Asia, and South America. These cheerful flowers come in a variety of colors and forms, making them suitable for a wide range of floral designs, from weddings to home decor.
In this Just Bloom HK guide, we will explore the different Gerbera varieties, categorizing them based on factors like color, size, and petal type, and providing helpful information for florists looking to expand their Gerbera repertoire.
1. Gerbera Daisy Varieties
Gerbera daisies are the most common and widely recognized type of Gerbera. They are available in a broad spectrum of colors, and they are known for their large, daisy-like appearance with a prominent central disc surrounded by long, flat petals. These flowers typically come in single-petal varieties.
Common Color Varieties:
Red Gerberas: Intense, bold hues like deep red and crimson.
Orange Gerberas: Bright, eye-catching orange shades ranging from light to dark.
Yellow Gerberas: A sunny, bright yellow, often with a soft golden tint.
Pink Gerberas: Vibrant pinks or soft pastel shades, perfect for weddings and celebrations.
White Gerberas: Clean, pure white, with a crisp, elegant look.
Purple Gerberas: A rarer shade, from lavender to deep violet.
Bi-colored Gerberas: Flowers with contrasting shades on the petals, such as red and yellow or pink and white.
2. Gerbera Varieties by Size
Gerbera flowers come in various sizes, and selecting the right one for an arrangement depends on the desired impact and design.
Standard Gerberas
Size: Typically 3 to 5 inches in diameter.
Characteristics: These are the most common and versatile size, ideal for bouquet work, centerpieces, and individual stems in vases. Their large blooms make them a focal point in any arrangement.
Mini Gerberas
Size: Usually around 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter.
Characteristics: These Gerberas have a more compact size and are great for smaller arrangements, boutonnieres, or when working with delicate floral designs. They offer a unique aesthetic when combined with other flowers.
Giant Gerberas
Size: Can reach up to 7 inches in diameter.
Characteristics: These flowers are perfect for creating dramatic, eye-catching designs. They are often used in large-scale arrangements, such as those for weddings, corporate events, or floral installations.
3. Gerbera Varieties by Petal Type
While Gerberas are typically known for their flat, daisy-like petals, some varieties have different petal structures. Florists can choose from single-petal or double-petal varieties, which offer different textures and aesthetic effects.
Single-Petal Gerberas
Appearance: These Gerberas feature a simple arrangement of long, flat petals around a central disc. They are the most common type of Gerbera and are ideal for traditional floral designs.
Best For: Everyday floral arrangements, wedding bouquets, and hand-tied bouquets.
Double-Petal Gerberas
Appearance: These varieties have extra layers of petals, making the flowers appear fuller and more textured. The added petals may overlap or create a more ruffled look.
Best For: Luxurious or more intricate designs, such as bridal bouquets or premium flower arrangements.
Spider Gerberas (or Decorative Gerberas)
Appearance: These Gerberas have elongated, spidery petals that curve outward. They often give a more exotic and unique look to floral designs.
Best For: High-end, modern, or unconventional arrangements where the focus is on texture and form.
4. Unique Varieties of Gerberas
Here are some standout Gerbera varieties that florists might want to incorporate into their designs:
‘Supernova’
Color: A stunning, bi-colored variety with a striking yellow center that fades into a soft pink.
Size: Large, perfect for bold designs.
Uses: Excellent for wedding bouquets, as it adds a touch of elegance and warmth.
‘Tango’
Color: Bright orange with a deep yellow center.
Size: Medium to large-sized blooms.
Uses: Ideal for autumn arrangements or tropical-themed floral designs.
‘Passion’
Color: Deep red petals with a dark black center.
Size: Medium-sized blooms.
Uses: Perfect for romantic bouquets or dramatic floral centerpieces.
‘Kilimanjaro’
Color: Bright white petals with a dark center.
Size: Large blooms.
Uses: A great choice for formal and elegant wedding flowers or corporate event decorations.
‘Sweet Smile’
Color: Yellow petals with a bright orange center, giving a "smiling" effect.
Size: Medium to large-sized blooms.
Uses: Suitable for cheerful, happy arrangements such as birthday bouquets or festive decorations.
5. Gerbera Hybrid Varieties
Hybrid Gerberas are often bred for unique traits such as improved disease resistance, longer vase life, or a wider color range. Some notable hybrid varieties include:
‘Crispy White’
Color: Pure white with a frilly, delicate look.
Size: Medium to large.
Uses: Popular for modern wedding bouquets and minimalistic floral arrangements.
‘Happy Revolution’
Color: A cheerful mix of pink, orange, and yellow hues.
Size: Medium-sized.
Uses: Excellent for creating bright, energetic floral compositions, especially in casual or celebratory settings.
‘Mambo’
Color: Vibrant red with orange undertones.
Size: Medium-sized.
Uses: Often used in vibrant, tropical arrangements or bold floral installations.
6. Growing and Caring for Gerbera Varieties
As florists and growers know, Gerberas can be a bit finicky, but with the right care, they reward you with long-lasting blooms. Here’s a quick care guide:
Light: Gerberas need bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the petals.
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Gerberas prefer slightly acidic soil.
Temperature: Gerberas thrive in moderate temperatures, ideally between 65°F (18°C) and 75°F (24°C).
Cut Gerberas: When used in floral arrangements, Gerberas should be cut at an angle and placed in fresh water immediately. Change the water daily to keep the flowers looking fresh.
7. Creative Uses of Gerberas in Floral Designs
Gerberas can be used in a wide range of designs, from simple arrangements to complex, artistic floral installations. Some popular uses include:
Wedding Bouquets: Gerberas’ bright colors and large blooms make them perfect for bold, contemporary wedding bouquets. They can be paired with roses, peonies, or lilies for contrast.
Centerpieces: Use Gerberas as a striking focal point in tall centerpieces or mixed with greenery for a natural look.
Funeral Arrangements: While Gerberas are typically associated with joyous occasions, they can be used in funeral tributes when paired with white flowers to symbolize hope and renewal.
Bouquets for Special Occasions: Gerberas are often used in birthday, anniversary, or congratulatory bouquets, thanks to their cheerful appearance.
Just Bloom Florist guide
Gerberas are incredibly versatile and diverse flowers that cater to a wide range of design preferences. By understanding the different varieties available, florists can select the best Gerbera for their specific needs, whether it’s a bright, bold centerpiece or a subtle, delicate bouquet. The key to incorporating Gerberas into floral arrangements is understanding their unique characteristics, from size and petal type to color and texture. By carefully selecting and properly caring for Gerberas, florists can create stunning designs that delight customers and celebrate all kinds of occasions.
