Gerbera (Germini Daisy)

Gerbera daisies are one of the most cheerful flowers in traditional bouquets. Bold, round and available in almost every colour imaginable, they have a way of making any room feel instantly brighter.

What each gerbera colour means and when to gift them

Red gerberas carry the same warmth as red roses but with a more playful, energetic edge. They represent passion and admiration and work well for romantic occasions where you want something bold without the formality of a traditional rose bouquet.

Pink gerberas are the most gifted colour for a reason. They communicate affection, gratitude, and warmth without being overly romantic. Pink gerberas are ideal for birthdays, thank you gestures, and get well soon arrangements. They are one of the most universally well-received flowers you can send.

Yellow gerberas are pure joy. They represent happiness, friendship, and new beginnings. If you are sending flowers to someone who needs cheering up, or to celebrate a new job, a new home, or a new chapter, yellow gerberas are one of the best choices you can make.

White gerberas are clean, elegant, and understated. They work beautifully in sympathy arrangements and wedding flowers, where their simplicity adds structure without competing with other blooms.

Orange gerberas sit between red and yellow in meaning. They communicate enthusiasm, warmth, and confidence. They are a great choice for congratulations bouquets and for anyone with a bold, vibrant personality.

How long do gerberas last

Gerberas typically last between seven and ten days as cut flowers. They are not the longest-lasting stem available, but with proper care they hold their shape and colour well throughout that window.

One thing to be aware of with gerberas is that they are sensitive to bacteria in the water. Keeping the vase clean and changing the water every two days makes a significant difference to their vase life. They also prefer shallow water rather than a deep vase, which helps prevent stem rot.

Germini daisies, the smaller-headed variety of gerbera, tend to last slightly longer and are often used in mixed arrangements for their versatility and staying power.

How to care for them

Trim the stems at a 45-degree angle as soon as they arrive and place them in a clean vase with fresh, cool water. Gerberas prefer shallow water, around five centimetres is ideal. Remove any leaves that would sit below the waterline to prevent bacterial build-up.

Change the water every two days and re-trim the stems each time. Keep gerberas away from direct sunlight, radiators, and fruit bowls. Ethylene gas released by ripening fruit accelerates petal drop in gerberas more than in most other flowers.

If the heads begin to droop, this is usually a sign of an air bubble in the stem. Re-cut the stem under water and place the flower in a fresh vase. This often revives them within a few hours.

Are gerberas safe for cats and dogs

Yes. Gerbera daisies are non-toxic to both cats and dogs, making them one of the best choices for households with pets. If you are looking for a bright, colourful flower to send to someone with a cat or dog at home, gerberas are an excellent option.

They are one of the few genuinely vibrant flowers that are completely safe for pets, which makes them particularly popular for sending to animal-loving friends and family across the UK.

When to send gerberas

Gerberas are a year-round flower and suit almost any occasion. They are particularly well-suited to birthdays, where their bold colours and cheerful appearance make an immediate impression. A mixed gerbera arrangement is one of the most reliably well-received birthday flower gifts you can send.

Send yellow or orange gerberas for congratulations. A new job, a promotion, a graduation, or a new home all deserve something this cheerful. Send pink gerberas as a thank you or to show appreciation. Send white gerberas as part of a sympathy arrangement where you want something gentle and clean.

Gerberas are also a popular choice for get well soon flowers. Their cheerful appearance and pet-safe status make them a practical and thoughtful choice, and because they are available year-round you are never waiting on season.

Shop arrangements that may include gerberas

Our weekly florist's pick bouquet is designed by our lead florist and features seasonal stems including gerberas when in peak season. Available with free UK delivery from £34.

Related guides:

Carnation Guide

All flower guides