Marguerite Daisy Argyranthemum 'Petite Pink'
ABOUT
Argyranthemum 'Petite Pink', commonly known as Pink Marguerite Daisy, is a delightful plant that boasts eye-catching floral beauty. This cultivar features a dense mound of finely divided, fresh green foliage which serves as a lush backdrop to its floral display. The leaves are delicate and fern-like, contributing to the plant's soft, feathery texture. Most striking are the Pink Marguerite Daisy's blooms. Its blossoms are daisy-like, with a cheerful array of soft pink petals radiating around a bright yellow central disc. The flowers are abundant and continue to bloom in a profuse display that can last from late spring through fall, given optimal conditions. These charming pink flowers are particularly attractive to butterflies, adding an additional layer of animation to the garden when these pollinators come to visit. The Pink Marguerite Daisy's growth habit is compact and bushy, which makes it suitable for a variety of garden settings, including container plantings, borders, and as an accent plant. Its continuous blooming cycle and vibrant pink hue make it a focal point in any garden composition where it's featured, infusing the space with a soft splash of color that is both warm and inviting.
About this plant
- Names
Synonyms
Marguerite Daisy, Paris Daisy, Cobbitty Daisy
Common names
Argyranthemum 'Petite Pink'.
- Toxicity
To humans
The Marguerite Daisy 'Petite Pink' typically does not carry significant toxicity for humans. However, as with many plants, individual allergies or sensitivities may exist, which can cause irritation or allergic reactions. When dealing with any plant, it is wise to exercise caution and keep them out of reach of small children who might inadvertently ingest plant parts. If any part of the plant is swallowed and adverse effects are noticed, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider.
To pets
Marguerite Daisy 'Petite Pink' is not commonly known to be toxic to pets. However, individual animals might have sensitivity or allergic reactions to this plant. As with all plants, it is advisable to prevent pets from consuming it to avoid potential gastrointestinal upset or other issues. If a pet does ingest Marguerite Daisy and exhibits symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or unusual behavior, it is important to consult a veterinarian.
- Characteristics
Life cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
10
Native area
Canary Islands
Benefits
- General Benefits
- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds vibrant pink blooms to gardens or patio containers, enhancing the visual appeal of an outdoor space.
- Long Blooming Period: Offers a long flowering season which means more color and vibrancy for a longer duration.
- Attracts Pollinators: Attracts bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems and promoting biodiversity.
- Low Maintenance: Typically easy to care for, requiring minimal upkeep once established.
- Drought Tolerance: Can withstand dry periods, which is beneficial in areas prone to drought or for gardeners looking for water-wise plants.
- Versatility: Suitable for use in borders, pots, and hanging baskets, allowing for a variety of gardening styles and uses.
- Compact Growth: With its petite size, it fits well in smaller gardens or spaces without taking over the area.
- Frost Tolerance: Capable of withstanding mild frost, making it a sturdy option for cooler climates.
- Rapid Growth: Quick to establish and grow, providing fast results for gardeners and landscapers.
- 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
- The Daisy 'Petite Pink' can be used as a natural border to create a low-lying hedge in gardens due to its compact growth habit.
- These plants can be utilized in sensory gardens where their textured foliage and vibrant, daisy-like flowers contribute to a multi-sensory experience.
- Daisy 'Petite Pink' is suitable for crafting dried floral arrangements, as the flowers retain color and shape well after drying.
- They can serve as an educational tool in schools for children to learn about plant growth, pollination, and horticultural practices.
- Pet photographers can use the bright floral backdrop for vibrant pet portraits taken in gardens or domestic settings.
- The plant can be used in theme gardens, such as fairy or miniature gardens, due to its small size and dainty appearance.
- Chefs and bakers might use the non-toxic petals of Daisy 'Petite Pink' as an organic garnish for salads or desserts.
- They can be planted in outdoor pots on apartment balconies to create a small, private garden space for city dwellers.
- These flowers can act as natural indicators of the changing seasons in temperate climates, signaling spring and summer's arrival.
- Hobbyists may use the Daisy 'Petite Pink' for practicing macro photography due to the plant's intricate flower structures.
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
- Beauty and Delicacy: The 'Petite Pink' variety, with its soft pink petals, symbolizes beauty and a delicate nature, often associated with femininity and grace.
- Optimism and Joy: Just as daisies, in general, represent cheerfulness, this plant, with its bright blossoms, is symbolic of positivity and the joy of life.
- Purity and Innocence: The clean, vibrant look of the 'Petite Pink' evokes a sense of purity and innocence, a common theme in white and lightly colored flowers.
- New Beginnings: The daisy family, which includes Argyranthemum, is often related to the idea of new beginnings and fresh starts, making it suitable for occasions such as births, and new ventures.
- Eternal Love: In floral language, daisies can also represent loyal love and commitment that withstands the test of time.
- Water
The Marguerite daisy, commonly referred to as the Argyranthemum 'Petite Pink', prefers even moisture and should be watered thoroughly whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Typically, this would be approximately once a week, but the frequency can vary depending on temperature and humidity. When watering, do so at the base of the plant, avoiding wetting the foliage to prevent disease. Ensure that the plant receives about 1 gallon of water at each watering, allowing it to reach the roots without leaving the soil waterlogged.
- Light
Marguerite daisy thrives best in full sun conditions, meaning it should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. The ideal spot for this plant is in an area where it can enjoy unobstructed sunlight, such as a south-facing garden bed or a sunny window if grown indoors. Too little light can cause the plant to become leggy and produce fewer flowers.
- Temperature
Marguerite daisies are best suited to temperatures between 50 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit but can survive in temperatures as low as 30 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature range will encourage healthy growth and flowering. Protecting the plant from extreme temperature fluctuations, especially frost, is crucial for its survival and bloom production.
- Pruning
Marguerite daisy benefits from regular pruning to encourage bushy growth and more blooms. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote continuous flowering. Cut back the plant by one-third in late summer to rejuvenate and encourage a fresh burst of growth and blooms. The best time for heavier pruning is in early spring before new growth begins.
- Cleaning
As needed
- Soil
Marguerite Daisy thrives in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 6.1 and 7.5. A mix of two parts potting soil, one part perlite, and one part compost is ideal to provide the appropriate balance of drainage, aeration, and nutrients.
- Repotting
Marguerite Daisies should be repotted every one to two years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth, preferably in the spring before the onset of vigorous growth.
- Humidity & Misting
Marguerite Daisies prefer moderate humidity levels, but as outdoor plants, they typically adapt well to the natural humidity in their environment without needing special attention.
- Suitable locations
Indoor
Place in bright indirect light, ensure good air flow.
Outdoor
Full sun, shelter from harsh winds, fertilize in spring.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
- Life cycle
Argyranthemum 'Petite Pink', commonly known as Pink Marguerite Daisy, begins its life as a seed, which upon germination, sprouts into a seedling with its first true leaves. As it enters the vegetative stage, the plant develops a rosette of leaves and stems, growing rapidly in favorable conditions of light, water, and soil nutrients. It progresses to the flowering stage wherein numerous pink, daisy-like flowers bloom, particularly from late spring through fall, attracting pollinators. After pollination, seeds are formed and dispersed, completing the reproductive cycle. In temperate climates, Pink Marguerite Daisy may die back in winter or go dormant, but it can return in spring if the root system remains unharmed and the environmental conditions are suitable. This plant can also be propagated vegetatively through cuttings, which will root and grow into new, genetically identical plants.
- Propogation
Propogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating Argyranthemum 'Petite Pink', commonly known as the Marguerite Daisy, is through stem cuttings. This is best done in late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. For successful propagation, a gardener should choose a healthy, non-flowering stem and cut a 4 to 6-inch (approximately 10 to 15 cm) long section. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end is dipped in rooting hormone powder to encourage root development. The prepared cutting should then be inserted into a pot filled with a well-draining soil mixture, ensuring that at least two nodes are buried where leaves were removed. The pot needs to be placed in a warm, bright area but not in direct sunlight and kept consistently moist. Roots typically form within a few weeks, after which the new plant can be gradually acclimatized to outdoor conditions before transplanting.