Shasta Daisy Leucanthemum × superbum 'Real Glory' (Realflor Series)
ABOUT
The Real Glory Shasta daisy is known for its stunning visual appeal. It features large, white petals that radiate around a prominent golden yellow center disk. The petals are often described as being quill-like and are numerous, surrounding the center in a symmetrical, almost sun-like fashion. The overall appearance of its flowers could remind one of the classic daisy look but with an enhanced, more elaborate form. These blooms are arranged atop sturdy stems which rise from a lush, green foliage. The leaves of the Real Glory Shasta daisy are generally dark green and have a glossy appearance with toothed edges, creating a verdant backdrop for the spectacular blooms. This plant is recognized for its showy flowers that are well-suited as cut flowers for vases or as part of a garden's visual accent. Its blooms are especially beloved for their ability to attract butterflies and other beneficial pollinators.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Shasta Daisy
Common names
Chrysanthemum maximum 'Real Glory', Chrysanthemum superbum 'Real Glory', Leucanthemum maximum 'Real Glory'.
ToxicityTo humans
The Shasta daisy is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, as with any plant, individual allergies or sensitivities may exist, and ingestion in large quantities could potentially cause stomach upset or discomfort. There are no widely recognized toxic effects from ingesting Shasta daisies. It is always advisable to avoid eating ornamental plants and to supervise young children to prevent accidental ingestion.
To pets
The Shasta daisy is generally recognized as non-toxic to pets, including cats and dogs. It is not known to cause serious poisoning. However, ingestion of any plant material can potentially lead to gastrointestinal upset in some animals. Signs of such a reaction may include vomiting and diarrhea. If a pet consumes a large amount of plant material and exhibits these or other concerning symptoms, it is recommended to contact a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
2 feet 6 inches (0.76 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Provides nectar and pollen for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, making it ideal for busy gardeners.
- Drought Tolerant: Adapts well to dry conditions after it is established, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Long Blooming: Offers a long flowering season, typically from early summer to fall, enhancing garden aesthetics for an extended period.
- Easy to Grow: Tolerates a variety of soil types and can thrive in different garden conditions.
- Landscape Design: Versatile for use in borders, flowerbeds, and as cut flowers for indoor arrangements.
- Cold Hardy: Can survive in colder climates, making it a suitable perennial for many regions.
- Visual Appeal: Adds a splash of brightness with its large white daisy-like flowers and vibrant green foliage.
- Wildlife Friendly: Can be part of a wildlife-friendly garden to support ecosystem biodiversity.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography Prop: The Shasta daisy's bold and large blooms make it an excellent subject for close-up photography and garden portfolio pictures.
- Art Inspiration: Artists can use the distinct form and contrast of the Shasta daisy as a muse for paintings, drawings, and textile designs.
- Educational Tool: The Shasta daisy can be used to teach botany and horticulture students about hybridization and plant breeding techniques.
- Culinary Decoration: Petals of the Shasta daisy can be used to garnish salads and desserts, although they should be used sparingly and removed before eating.
- Flower Pressing: The Shasta daisy's flowers are ideal for pressing, preserving their shape and color well for crafting and scrapbooking.
- Mood Setting: Using Shasta daisies in a room can create a cheerful and sunny ambiance due to their bright and happy appearance.
- Natural Dye: The Shasta daisy can be used as a source of yellow to green shades when making natural dyes for fabrics or paper.
- Theme Gardens: Shasta daisies can be incorporated into themed garden designs, such as an all-white moonlight garden, which they complement due to their color and form.
- Biodegradable Confetti: Dried petals of the Shasta daisy can be used as a biodegradable confetti alternative for outdoor celebrations.
- Bookmark Crafting: Pressed Shasta daisy flowers can be used to create beautiful and unique bookmarks, ideal for a personal gift or craft project.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Shasta Daisy is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Shasta Daisy is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Innocence: As a variety of daisy, the Leucanthemum × superbum 'Real Glory' embodies innocence, reflecting the traditional association of daisies with purity and simplicity.
- Purity: The clean, white petals of this plant are often linked with purity of thought and spirit, making it a popular choice for bridal bouquets and religious occasions.
- New Beginnings: Daisies like Leucanthemum × superbum 'Real Glory' signal new beginnings, perfect for symbolizing fresh starts such as births or new ventures.
- Cheerfulness: The bright, eye-catching bloom of the 'Real Glory' evokes a sense of cheer and joy, thus symbolizing positiveness and the ability to brighten someone's day.
- Loyal Love: Daisies often represent loyalty in love, perhaps owing to their circular form and the way the petals tightly surround the core, suggesting a protective and tight-knit bond.
WaterFor Shasta daisies, water deeply to ensure the moisture reaches the root zone, then allow the soil to dry out somewhat between waterings. These plants prefer evenly moist soil, so regular watering is important, especially during dry spells. In general, one to two inches of water per week, either from rainfall or supplemental watering, should be sufficient. It's best to water early in the morning to allow foliage to dry out during the day, which helps prevent disease. Avoid overhead watering to minimize wet foliage.
LightShasta daisies thrive in full sun, meaning they need at least six hours of direct sunlight each day, although they can tolerate partial shade. The ideal spot for Shasta daisies would be in an area that receives morning sunlight and some afternoon shade, particularly in hotter climates, to prevent the midday sun from scorching the foliage and flowers.
TemperatureShasta daisies can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but grow best when daytime temperatures are between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive minimum winter temperatures down to about -20 degrees Fahrenheit. For optimal growth and flowering, avoid placing them in areas where temperatures consistently exceed 85 degrees Fahrenheit, as extreme heat can stress the plants.
PruningPruning Shasta daisies is done to encourage bushier growth, to remove spent flowers for extended blooming, and to maintain an attractive plant shape. Deadhead regularly by cutting back the spent flowers to just above a set of leaves. In late fall or early spring, prune back the entire plant to about 6 inches from the ground to prepare for new growth. Pruning can be done after each bloom cycle.
CleaningAs needed
SoilShasta Daisy thrives in well-draining, fertile soil enriched with compost. The ideal pH range for this plant is between 6.0 and 8.0. A mix of garden soil, peat or coconut coir, and perlite or sand can create an optimal growing environment.
RepottingShasta Daisies grown in containers should be repotted every 1-2 years or when they become root-bound to maintain health and vigor.
Humidity & MistingShasta Daisy tolerates a wide range of humidity conditions and does not require any special humidity adjustments for optimal growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Shasta Daisy needs bright light indoors, minimal care.
Outdoor
In the garden, Shasta Daisy needs full sun, average soil.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Shasta Daisy 'Real Glory' begins its life cycle as a seed, which, when sown in well-draining soil and given adequate sunlight and water, will germinate and sprout seedlings. These seedlings then develop into juvenile plants, building up a basal rosette of foliage that's essential for photosynthesis and growth. With time, the plant enters the vegetative growth stage where it matures and produces larger leaves, and as it becomes established, it forms a clump with multiple stems. During the flowering stage, typically in late spring or summer depending on the climate, ‘Real Glory’ produces its signature large, white daisy-like flowers with yellow centers that attract pollinators. After pollination, these flowers develop into seeds that can be dispersed to begin a new generation. Finally, in the dormant stage during the fall and winter, 'Real Glory' may die back, especially in colder climates, to preserve energy for the next growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Propogation: The Shasta daisy 'Real Glory' is typically propagated through division, which is best done in the early spring or fall. The most popular method involves carefully digging up an established clump of the plant and gently prying or cutting it apart into smaller sections, each with some roots attached. These sections are then immediately replanted into prepared soil, spaced adequately apart to allow for growth. It is important to keep the new transplants well-watered to ensure they establish a strong root system in their new location. This method leverages the plant's natural growth habit, enabling gardeners to expand their display or share with others while maintaining the genetic identity of the 'Real Glory' variety.
