Gerbera × hybrida 'Festival' series
The ‘Festival’ series is a standard-size F1 pot gerbera from Sakata. Plants are uniform with a tight flowering window that suits home displays. The habit is upright with large, colorful flowers on short to medium stems. Plants prefer sun and a well-drained potting mix with steady feeding. In most of North America it is used as a warm-season annual for containers and patios.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: standard pot gerbera F1 series
- Height × spread: 14 in × 10 in (35 cm × 25 cm)
- Bloom window: late spring to early fall; depends on temperature and light
- Color & flower form: large single daisies in apricot, cherry, golden yellow, pink, red, white, and mixes
- Fragrance: 0 none
- USDA hardiness: grown as annual in most regions; perennial in zones 8 to 10
- Breeder / Year / Origin: Sakata Ornamentals, unknown, Japan
- Awards/registration: unknown
- Cut-flower notes: stems are modest length; better as a potted plant than a cut
- Pet safety: safe
How it differs
- Produces many large flowers on compact plants.
- Tight, predictable flowering window for coordinated displays.
- Standard pot habit between compact and garden-type series.
Strengths
- Uniform plants with multiple blooms at retail.
- Versatile for 4 to 6 in pots and mixed patio planters.
- Broad color range including light- and dark-eye forms.
Care in one minute
- Provide full sun with afternoon shade where summers are hot.
- Use a well-drained peat-based potting mix; avoid burying the crown.
- Water when the top inch is dry; avoid overhead watering.
- Feed every 2 to 3 weeks to sustain blooming.
- Deadhead entire stems to keep plants tidy and productive.
Watch‑outs
- Requires good light to avoid stretch and weak stems.
- Sensitive to waterlogged media; keep crowns high and well drained.
- Monitor for thrips, whiteflies, and mites in warm conditions.
Best uses (tags)
containers; patio; seasonal color; gift plant
Provenance note
Developed by Sakata Ornamentals as a standard F1 pot series with a narrow, predictable flowering window for coordinated production and display.
References
- Sakata Ornamentals EU – Festival product page
- Sakata Ornamentals – Festival Culture Guide (PDF)
- Clemson HGIC – Gerbera Daisy care
- ASPCA – Gerber Daisy (non-toxic to pets)
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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