Shasta Daisy Leucanthemum × superbum
ABOUT
The plant is best known for its charming, daisy-like flowers that boast white petals radiating around a central yellow disc. These blossoms, which are the plant’s most striking feature, appear to sparkle in a garden setting and are known for their classic, quintessential flower form. The large, showy blooms emerge atop strong, erect stems that rise above the lush foliage. The leaves of this plant are typically dark green, with a glossy surface that may have a slightly leathery texture. Their shape is oblong to spoon-shaped with toothed or smooth edges, and they are arranged alternately along the stems, creating a dense and bushy appearance. The foliage forms a backdrop that accentuates the clean white color of the flowers, which sets it apart in a landscape. The plant has the remarkable ability to bloom throughout much of the summer, repeatedly producing its signature flowers that can serve as attractive focal points in gardens, borders, or as cut flowers in arrangements. The overall impression of this plant is one of bright cheerfulness and classic beauty, contributing a touch of elegance to the spaces where it is grown.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Shasta Daisy, Alaska Daisy
Common names
Chrysanthemum maximum, Chrysanthemum superbum, Chrysanthemum lacustre, Leucanthemum maximum, Leucanthemum lacustre.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as Shasta daisy is generally not considered toxic to humans. There are no well-documented cases of poisoning from ingesting this plant. However, ingestion of any plant material can potentially cause some discomfort, such as nausea or an upset stomach, especially if consumed in large quantities. It is always recommended to avoid eating ornamental plants.
To pets
Shasta daisy is generally considered to be non-toxic to pets, such as dogs and cats. This plant is not commonly associated with poisoning in pets, and there should be minimal risk if they happen to ingest a small amount. However, as with any non-food plant, ingestion can sometimes lead to mild gastrointestinal upset, which might manifest as vomiting or diarrhea. If a pet consumes a large amount of plant material, or if any worrisome symptoms occur, contacting a veterinarian for advice is recommended.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1-3 feet (30-91 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-61 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Beautification: Adds aesthetic value to gardens with its bright white petals and yellow centers.
- Pollinator Attraction: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, promoting biodiversity.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, making it suitable for novice gardeners.
- Drought Tolerance: Able to survive in dry conditions, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Versatility: Can be used in borders, containers, and as cut flowers for interior decoration.
- Long Bloom Period: Produces flowers throughout the summer, providing a consistent display of color.
- Erosion Control: Helps stabilize soil in gardens and landscapes, preventing erosion.
- Adaptability: Thrives in a wide range of soils and environmental conditions.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Leucanthemum × superbum, commonly known as Shasta daisy, can be used in floral crafts such as creating dried flower arrangements due to its long-lasting nature when dried properly.
- The plant's leaves can be mulched and used in the garden to enrich the soil as they decompose, contributing to the nutrient cycle.
- Shasta daisies can serve as companions in vegetable gardens, attracting beneficial insects that can help with pollination and pest control.
- Compressed Shasta daisy stalks can be used creatively as a natural plant stake for supporting other, more fragile plants in the garden.
- The Shasta daisy's bright white petals can be used as a natural dye source, although it may produce subtle colorings.
- These flowers can be utilized in educational settings to teach students about pollination and the life cycle of perennial plants.
- Shasta daisy petals can be scattered as a biodegradable confetti for outdoor celebrations, providing an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic confetti.
- The plant's dense foliage can play a role in erosion control, as it can help to stabilize soil with its root system.
- Cut Shasta daisies can be used as a natural indicator of indoor humidity, as their petals tend to wilt in overly dry air environments.
- For artistic purposes, the distinct form and color contrasts of Shasta daisies can be used in photography and painting to study shadows and highlights in natural forms.
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: The Shasta daisy is often associated with purity and innocent beauty, reminiscent of the simple, unspoiled beauty of its white petals.
- Cheerfulness: Its bright and sunny appearance symbolizes cheerfulness and positivity, bringing light to any garden or bouquet.
- Loyal Love: With its long-lasting nature, the Shasta daisy represents loyal love and commitment that endures over time.
- Purity: Echoing themes of innocence, the white color of the Shasta daisy is traditionally associated with cleanliness and purity.
- Transformation: Since the Shasta daisy is a hybrid plant, it embodies transformation and the successful combining of different elements to create something new and beautiful.
- New Beginnings: The daisy's association with spring and rebirth makes it a symbol of fresh starts and new beginnings.
WaterThe Shasta Daisy should be watered deeply once or twice a week, depending on the climate and soil conditions. It's important to allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Generally, you should aim to provide about one to two gallons of water per week, ensuring that the water penetrates the soil to reach the roots. Avoid overhead watering to keep the foliage dry and reduce the risk of disease.
LightThe Shasta Daisy thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. The ideal spot for this plant is one where it receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. However, in extremely hot climates, providing some afternoon shade can help protect the plant from scorching.
TemperatureShasta Daisies prefer temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit but can withstand temperatures as low as -20 degrees and as high as 85 degrees Fahrenheit. They are cold-hardy plants that can survive frost and thrive in cooler summer temperatures.
PruningShasta Daisies should be pruned to encourage bushier growth, remove spent blooms, and maintain a neat appearance. Deadhead regularly during the blooming season to promote continuous flowering. Cut back the plant to a few inches above ground level in late fall or early spring before new growth begins.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for a Shasta daisy, which is the common name of Leucanthemum × superbum, should be well-draining and fertile, with a pH ranging from 6.0 to 8.0. A combination of garden soil, compost, and perlite or coarse sand is ideal to ensure proper drainage and fertility.
RepottingShasta daisies typically do not require frequent repotting and can be repotted every 2 to 3 years or when the plant appears to be outgrowing its current container, exhibiting signs such as roots growing through the drainage holes.
Humidity & MistingShasta daisies are not particularly humidity-sensitive plants, but they do best in moderate humidity conditions. Average room humidity is typically sufficient for these daisies when grown indoors.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light, keep soil moderately moist.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-drained soil, space 1-2 feet apart.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA.
Life cycleThe Shasta daisy (Leucanthemum × superbum) begins its life cycle when seeds are sown in soil and germinate, usually in the spring. After germination, the seedlings develop into juvenile plants characterized by the formation of a basal rosette of leaves. As the plant matures, it enters the vegetative growth stage, where it grows more leaves and stems, storing energy for flowering. When environmental conditions are suitable, usually in late spring to summer, the plant initiates the reproductive stage, producing flower stems with characteristic white petals and yellow centers. After pollination, typically through insect vectors, the flowers produce seeds, which are eventually dispersed by wind or other means to start a new generation. Finally, perennials like Shasta daisies enter a period of dormancy in winter, during which above-ground parts may die back, while the roots survive to regrow the following year.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The Shasta daisy, Leucanthemum × superbum, is commonly propagated through division, which is best done in the early spring or early fall. This method involves carefully digging up an established clump of Shasta daisies and gently separating it into smaller sections, ensuring that each new division has a portion of the root system attached. Gardeners typically use a sharp spade or knife to split the clump into divisions, aiming for sections about 4 to 6 inches (approximately 10 to 15 centimeters) across, which allows a good balance between a manageable division size and ensuring enough root material for successful re-establishment. The divisions are then planted in prepared soil at the same depth they were growing previously, watered well, and maintained consistently moist until they establish in their new location. Division is a straightforward method that allows for the expansion of the garden or sharing with other garden enthusiasts while maintaining the health and vigor of the parent plant.
