Late Summer Daisy Leucanthemella serotina

Names

• Family

  Asteraceae

• Synonyms

  Late-flowering Daisy, Giant Daisy, Autumn Ox-eye

• Common names

  Chrysanthemum serotinum, Leucanthemum serotinum, Matricaria serotina, Pyrethrum serotinum, Tanacetum serotinum, Chrysanthemum serotinum var. robustum.

Toxicity

• To humans

  The plant commonly known as Late-flowering Ox-eye (Leucanthemella serotina) does not have significant toxicity reported in the available literature as of my knowledge cutoff in 2023. However, it is generally advisable to avoid ingesting parts of any plant unless it is known to be safe, as individual reactions can vary. There are no widely known symptoms specifically associated with poisoning from this plant in humans, and it is not commonly listed as a toxic plant.

• To pets

  Late-flowering Ox-eye (Leucanthemella serotina) is not typically listed as a toxic plant to pets, including cats and dogs. As with humans, there isn't significant information available regarding its toxicity to pets, and it is not generally known to cause poisoning. While the lack of reported toxicity suggests pets may not experience adverse effects from ingesting this plant, it is always wise to prevent pets from eating plants not intended for their consumption, as individual animals may have sensitivities or allergic reactions.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  White

• Height

  4-5 feet (1.2-1.5 meters)

• Spread

  2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)

• Plant type

  Herb

• Hardiness zones

  5

• Native area

  Southeastern Europe

General Benefits

• Ornamental Value: Leucanthemella serotina, commonly known as Late Daisy, adds aesthetic appeal to gardens with its tall stems and striking white flowers.
• Attracts Pollinators: It serves as a source of nectar for bees, butterflies, and other pollinating insects, which are vital for the ecosystem.
• Drought Resistance: Once established, Late Daisy is relatively drought-tolerant, which makes it suitable for gardens in drier climates or for reducing water usage.
• Late Blooming: It blooms in late summer to fall, providing color and interest in the garden when many other plants have finished flowering.
• Cold Hardy: This plant can survive in colder temperatures, making it suitable for planting in a variety of climates.
• Wildlife Friendly: The flowers of the Late Daisy can provide a food source for wildlife, such as birds that feed on the seeds.
• Ease of Care: It requires minimal maintenance once established, making it a good choice for gardeners of all skill levels.
• Soil Adaptability: Late Daisy can thrive in a range of soil types, although it prefers well-drained soils.
• Fast Growth: The plant can grow quickly, which is beneficial for those looking to establish a garden display in a shorter period.

Medical Properties

This plant is not used for medical purposes.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Garden Accent: The Giant daisy can serve as a striking accent in garden designs, particularly in late summer and autumn when other flowers may be fading.
• Wildlife Attractant: They can attract butterflies and other beneficial insects, enhancing biodiversity within a garden space.
• Floral Arrangements: Stems of the Giant daisy can be used in cut-flower arrangements for a touch of late-season vibrancy indoors.
• Education: Due to its unique late-flowering trait, it can be used in educational settings to discuss plant phenology and seasonal changes in flora.
• Landscape Stabilization: They can help in soil stabilization efforts due to their robust root systems, particularly on slopes or areas prone to erosion.
• Eco-Friendly Lawns: Some gardeners use the Giant daisy as an alternative to grass in areas where traditional lawns are difficult to maintain.
• Winter Interest: Dried seed heads of the Giant daisy can add texture and interest to gardens during the winter months when most plants are dormant.
• Photography Subject: The Giant daisy, with its large, white flowers, can be a captivating subject for nature photographers, especially in the golden light of autumn.
• Companion Planting: They can be used in companion planting to benefit other plants, as they may deter certain pests with their presence.
• Septic Field Cover: The Giant daisy can be planted over septic drain fields to provide an attractive cover that won't harm the underlying system thanks to its non-invasive roots.

Feng Shui

Autumn Ox-eye is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

Autumn Ox-eye is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Endurance: Leucanthemella serotina, commonly known as Late Summer Daisy, flowers in the later part of the growing season, representing the ability to thrive and bloom even as the days grow shorter and the weather cools, symbolizing durability and perseverance.
• Purity: With its delicate white petals, the Late Summer Daisy is often seen as a symbol of purity and innocence, commonly associated with a clean, unblemished character or a fresh start.
• Hope: Blooming late in the summer when many other plants are fading, the Late Summer Daisy represents hope and the promise of renewal, reminding us that there is brightness even as the summer ends and the colder seasons approach.
• Patience: The Late Summer Daisy's late blooming period also stands for patience, highlighting the plant's gradual journey to blooming and the virtue of waiting for the right moment to shine.