Marguerite Daisy Argyranthemum Madeira White Improved = 'Bonmadwitim' (PBR) (Madeira Series)
ABOUT
Argyranthemum Madeira White Improved, commonly referred to as Marguerite Daisy, is an ornamental plant known for its profuse and showy flowers. The blossoms are primarily a crisp, radiant white with a cheerful yellow center, presenting a classic daisy appearance. The petals are slender and numerous, radiating around the central disk in a harmonious fashion. This variety is noted for its abundant flowering, which contributes to its popularity in gardens and floral displays. The foliage of the Marguerite Daisy is a deep green, with leaves that are finely cut and fern-like in appearance, providing a lush background that nicely contrasts with the purity of the white petals. These leaves are generally arranged in a dense and bushy manner, giving the plant a full and robust look. Overall, the Marguerite Daisy is celebrated for its extended blooming period and its ability to bring a bright and cheerful presence to the landscape. It is commonly cultivated to grace garden borders, containers, and as part of mixed flower arrangements due to its charming and appealing visual allure.
About this plant
- Names
Synonyms
Marguerite Daisy, Paris Daisy, Cobbity Daisy
Common names
Argyranthemum Madeira White Improved, Argyranthemum frutescens 'Bonmadwitim'
- Toxicity
To humans
The Marguerite Daisy is generally not considered toxic to humans. Most people can handle and plant Marguerite Daisy without adverse effects. However, as with many plants, sensitivity varies from person to person, and some may experience mild irritation or an allergic reaction if they have skin contact with the sap. Ingestion is not advised as it could potentially cause stomach upset or an allergic reaction in sensitive individuals, but it is not known for being seriously poisonous. Always exercise caution and keep plants out of reach of small children who might accidentally ingest plant parts.
To pets
The Marguerite Daisy is not typically known to be toxic to pets. It is considered non-toxic to dogs, cats, and other household animals. However, ingestion of any plant material may cause gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea in pets, particularly if they consume a large amount. It's always advisable to monitor your pets and prevent them from eating plants, especially in large quantities. If you suspect your pet is suffering from any symptoms after ingesting this plant, it is best to consult with a veterinarian.
- Characteristics
Life cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
9-11
Native area
Canary Islands
Benefits
- General Benefits
- Attractive Blooms: The plant features beautiful white daisy-like flowers that enhance the aesthetic appeal of any garden or landscape.
- Extended Flowering Period: It offers a long flowering season, providing color from spring until the first frosts of autumn.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal upkeep once established, making it ideal for busy gardeners or those with less gardening experience.
- Drought Tolerant: Once settled in, these plants can tolerate periods of drought, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Pest Resistant: The variety has a good level of resistance to many common garden pests, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
- Compact Growth Habit: Its growth habit is bushy and compact, allowing it to fit comfortably in mixed borders, containers, or small gardens without taking over.
- Attracts Pollinators: Flowers of the Madeira Series are known for attracting bees and butterflies, promoting biodiversity.
- 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
- Photography Prop: The Argyranthemum Madeira White Improved can serve as a beautiful backdrop or subject for photographers, especially those specializing in macro or nature photography.
- Art Inspiration: Artists may use this plant as a reference or inspiration for paintings, drawings, and other forms of artwork due to its aesthetic appeal.
- Educational Tool: Botanists and teachers can use the plant to educate about plant morphology, hybridization, and horticultural practices involved in creating improved cultivars.
- Event Decorations: The white blooms of the Argyranthemum Madeira White Improved make them suitable for decorating venues for events like weddings or parties, adding a touch of elegance.
- Handcrafted Creations: The intricate flowers can be used to embellish handcrafted items like wreaths, hats, or hair accessories for a natural touch.
- Plant Competitions: Gardeners can cultivate this particular variety for entries in flower shows or horticultural competitions.
- Performance Art: Natural elements, including this particular plant, can be incorporated into performance art pieces for stage designs or costumes.
- Culinary Decoration: Although not commonly consumed, the flowers can be used for plating aesthetics in high-end culinary presentations.
- Religious Ceremonies: In some cultures, white flowers are symbolic and used in religious or spiritual ceremonies as offerings or decorations.
- Film and Television Sets: Set designers may incorporate the Argyranthemum Madeira White Improved into scenes to create a specific look or atmosphere, such as a peaceful garden.
Interesting Facts
- Feng Shui
The Marguerite Daisy is not used in Feng Shui practice.
- Zodiac Sign Compitability
The Marguerite Daisy is not used in astrology practice.
- Plant Symbolism
- Purity: The color white in many cultures is often associated with purity, innocence, and cleanliness. As a white flower, 'Bonmadwitim' naturally embodies these characteristics.
- Peace: White flowers are often used to convey sentiments of peace and calmness, making 'Bonmadwitim' an appropriate symbol for peaceful intentions.
- Hope: Blooming flowers represent hope and the continuation of life, with white often signifying new beginnings and fresh starts.
- Sympathy: The serene appearance of white flowers like 'Bonmadwitim' can express compassion and condolence, making them suitable for sympathetic gestures.
- Elegance: Pristine and classy, white flowers are frequently associated with sophistication and elegance, a characteristic effortlessly carried by 'Bonmadwitim'.
- Water
Marguerite daisy should be watered regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. During active growth in the warm months, water thoroughly once the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which could be approximately once or twice a week, depending on local weather conditions. It's often recommended to use about 1 gallon of water for a medium-sized plant, ensuring even distribution around the base of the plant without wetting the foliage. During the winter, reduce watering frequency as plant growth slows down. Adequate drainage is crucial to prevent root rot.
- Light
Marguerite daisy thrives in a location that receives full sun for at least 6 to 8 hours a day. The best spot for this plant would be where it can soak up plenty of bright, direct sunlight. However, in hotter climates, they can benefit from light afternoon shade to protect them from scorching midday sun.
- Temperature
Marguerite daisy's ideal temperature range is between 60°F and 75°F for optimal growth. They can tolerate a minimum temperature of around 50°F but should be protected from frosts, as temperatures below that can cause damage. They perform best when not exposed to extremes, avoiding temperatures above 80°F, which can stress the plant.
- Pruning
Marguerite daisy should be pruned to encourage bushier growth and to maintain a neat appearance. Deadheading spent blooms regularly will promote continuous flowering. Pruning can be done after the main blooming period, typically in late summer or early fall, removing about one-third of the plant to rejuvenate it for the next season. Major pruning should coincide with the end of the flowering cycle.
- Cleaning
As needed
- Soil
Marguerite Daisy prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. A good mix can be made with equal parts of potting soil, peat moss, and perlite or sand to enhance drainage.
- Repotting
Marguerite Daisy should be repotted every 1-2 years or when it becomes root-bound, using fresh soil mix to replenish nutrients.
- Humidity & Misting
Marguerite Daisy thrives in moderate to high humidity levels, but it is adaptable and can tolerate lower humidity typical of indoor environments without issue.
- Suitable locations
Indoor
Place in bright, indirect light and avoid overwatering.
Outdoor
Full sun, shelter from wind, and well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
- Life cycle
The Argyranthemum 'Bonmadwhitim' (PBR) (Madeira Series), commonly known as the Marguerite Daisy, begins its life cycle when the seeds germinate in the spring, given adequate warmth and moisture. Following germination, seedlings emerge and develop into young plants with characteristic feathery foliage. As the plants mature, they enter a vigorous vegetative growth stage, forming robust green stems and leaves. During late spring to summer, the Marguerite Daisy progresses to its flowering stage, producing an abundance of white daisy-like blooms with yellow centers, a display that continues until the first frost in autumn. The plant may undergo a period of dormancy in winter, especially in cooler climates, but it can remain evergreen if the conditions are mild. Eventually, after flowering, the plant sets seeds, completing its life cycle and enabling propagation for the continuation of the species.
- Propogation
Propogation time
Spring to Early Summer
Propogation: The most popular method of propagating the Marguerite Daisy, specifically the Argyranthemum Madeira White Improved 'Bonmadwitim' (PBR) (Madeira Series), is through cuttings. This is typically done in late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. A healthy, non-flowering shoot should be chosen, and a cutting of about 4 to 6 inches (approximately 10 to 15 centimeters) should be taken. The lower leaves are removed and the cut end dipped in rooting hormone before being placed in a well-draining potting mix. The cutting should be kept moist and in a well-lit area but out of direct sunlight. Roots usually develop within a few weeks after which the new plant can be transplanted into its permanent location.