Shasta Daisy Leucanthemum × superbum 'T.e. Killin' (d)
ABOUT
The plant known commonly as Shasta daisy 'T.e. Killin' showcases a classic daisy appearance with a few distinctive flourishes that make it a beloved addition to gardens. The flower heads are the centerpieces of this plant, characterized by a bright yellow central disk surrounded by a multitude of pure white petals that radiate outward. The petals are long and strap-shaped, with a slightly overlapping arrangement that creates a full and lush look. The overall form of the Shasta daisy 'T.e. Killin' is neat and clump-forming, presenting an organized yet natural aesthetic. The foliage of the plant is rich green, with leaves that are glossy and lanceolate, meaning they are shaped like a lance tip—broad at the base and tapering to a point. These leaves can grow densely along the upright stems, providing a lush background that contrasts beautifully with the crisp white blossoms. During its blooming season, this plant becomes a radiant feature in the garden, with its flowers rising above the foliage on sturdy stems. As a perennial, it offers the prospect of a recurring display year after year, bringing a sense of permanence and seasonal anticipation to the landscape. The appealing contrast between the yellow centers and the white petals gives this Shasta daisy variety a cheerful presence that can brighten any flower bed or border. Its simple yet striking flowers also make it a popular choice for cut flower arrangements, where its beauty can be appreciated up close.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Shasta Daisy, Alaska Nippon Daisy
Common names
Chrysanthemum maximum 'T.e. Killin', Chrysanthemum × superbum 'T.e. Killin'.
ToxicityTo humans
Shasta daisy, which is the common name for Leucanthemum × superbum 'T.e. Killin', is generally not considered toxic to humans. However, as with many plants, some individuals may have allergic reactions or sensitivity to the plant, particularly if they have allergies to other plants in the Asteraceae family. If ingested in large quantities, it might cause mild gastrointestinal upset, but this is not common. There are no severe toxic consequences associated with the ingestion of Shasta daisy by humans.
To pets
Shasta daisy is not typically toxic to pets either. Most animals that ingest this plant do not show any significant symptoms of poisoning. As with humans, pets with particular sensitivities may experience mild gastrointestinal upset, but serious health impacts are not expected. It is still advisable to monitor pets and prevent them from ingesting large amounts of any non-food plant, including Shasta daisy, to avoid any potential discomfort.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Spread
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: The Leucanthemum × superbum 'T.e. Killin', commonly known as Shasta daisy, offers beautiful, large, white flowers with sunny yellow centers that enhance the visual appeal of gardens and landscapes.
- Attracts Pollinators: Shasta daisies attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, which are vital for pollination and the health of the ecosystem.
- Easy to Grow: This plant is known for being hardy and easy to grow, requiring minimal maintenance, which is perfect for beginner gardeners and those looking for low-maintenance landscaping.
- Long Blooming Period: Shasta daisies have a long flowering season, often from early summer to fall, providing extended color and vibrancy to outdoor spaces.
- Cut Flowers: The blooms of the Shasta daisy make excellent cut flowers for arrangements and bouquets due to their long vase life and classic beauty.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, these plants are quite drought-tolerant, making them suitable for xeriscaping and gardens in dryer regions.
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 bright white petals and sunny yellow centers can be used to create eye-catching floral photography compositions.
- Eco Printing: The flowers and leaves of the Shasta Daisy can be used in eco printing techniques to transfer their shapes and colors onto fabric or paper.
- Natural Dyes: The flowers of the Shasta Daisy can be used to produce a subtle yellow or green dye for textiles or crafts.
- Artistic Inspiration: Artists may use Shasta Daisies as a subject for drawing, painting, or other forms of art due to their distinct and appealing form.
- Garden Design: Shasta Daisies can be used in a moon garden, where their white flowers reflect moonlight and create a glowing effect at night.
- Culinary Garnish: The petals of Shasta Daisy are edible and can be used to garnish salads and desserts, adding a unique visual appeal.
- Biodegradable Confetti: Dried petals of Shasta Daisies can be used as natural, biodegradable confetti for celebrations, reducing environmental impact.
- Plant Combinations: Shasta Daisies can be combined with other plants to create beneficial plant partnerships in the garden, potentially improving growth and health.
- Education: Shasta Daisies can be used in educational programs to teach about plant biology, pollination, and the life cycle of perennials.
- Fuel for Biomass: When dried, the plant material of Shasta Daisies could be used in biomass energy production, although not commonly practiced.
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, commonly known as Leucanthemum × superbum 'T.E. Killin', often symbolizes innocence due to its pure white petals that are reminiscent of childlike simplicity and virtue.
- Purity: The white color of the Shasta daisy is also associated with purity and new beginnings, making it a popular choice for bridal bouquets and celebrations that mark fresh starts.
- Chastity: Like many white flowers, Shasta daisies can represent chastity, signifying a commitment to keeping something sacred or unspoilt.
- Transformation: Shasta daisies can symbolize transformation or the ability to move from one phase of life to another because they are a hybrid plant, the result of breeding different daisy species together.
- Loyal Love: The loyalty and bond represented by the Shasta daisy make it a symbol of loyal love or fidelity, often used to communicate a lasting commitment between partners.
WaterShasta daisies should be watered thoroughly, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Generally, they require 1 inch of water per week, either from rainfall or irrigation. During hot, dry spells, water the plants once or twice a week, providing enough water to soak the soil to a depth of 6 to 8 inches. It's best to water in the morning to allow foliage to dry before nightfall and to use a soaker hose or drip irrigation to minimize water contact with the foliage, which can help prevent disease.
LightShasta daisies thrive in full sun, which means they need at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. They can tolerate light shade, especially in the afternoon, but too much shade can lead to leggy plants and fewer blooms. Place the plant in a spot where it will receive ample morning sunlight and some protection from the intense afternoon sun in hotter climates.
TemperatureShasta daisies perform best in temperatures ranging from 60 to 75°F. They can survive in temperatures down to 20°F and up to 85°F, but they may not bloom as prolifically outside their ideal temperature range. The plant is cold-hardy and can tolerate some frost, making it suitable for planting in areas with cooler climates.
PruningShasta daisies should be pruned to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming throughout the season. In the fall or early spring, cut back the plant to about 1 or 2 inches above the ground level to maintain its shape and encourage healthy new growth. Always use clean, sharp pruning tools to prevent damage to the plant.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Shasta Daisy 'T.E. Killin' thrives in well-drained, loamy soil with a pH of 6.0 to 8.0. A balanced mix of compost, peat moss, and perlite can support healthy growth.
RepottingShasta Daisies like 'T.E. Killin' are typically perennials and do not need frequent repotting; repot every 2-3 years if grown in containers.
Humidity & MistingShasta Daisy 'T.E. Killin' is adaptable to average humidity levels found in outdoor environments and does not require specific humidity conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and ensure good air flow.
Outdoor
Full sun to partial shade, enrich soil with compost, moderate water.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleLeucanthemum × superbum 'T.E. Killin', commonly known as Shasta Daisy, begins its life cycle when its seeds germinate in the spring after the last frost, requiring well-drained soil and full sunlight for optimal growth. The seedlings develop into rosettes of dark green foliage, after which upright stems grow and bear the characteristic white-petaled daisies with yellow centers by early to mid-summer. The flowers bloom for several weeks, attracting pollinators to the garden before they fade and produce seeds. Post blooming, the plant may be deadheaded to encourage a second, smaller flush of flowers in late summer or early fall. As the growing season ends, the plant can be cut back to the ground level after the foliage dies back with the onset of colder weather. The perennial nature of the Shasta Daisy allows it to survive winter dormancy and regrow from its robust root system the following spring, repeating its lifecycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Early Spring
Leucanthemum × superbum 'T.e. Killin', commonly known as Shasta daisy, is most effectively propagated through division. This method is typically carried out in the early spring or fall. To propagate by division, first, carefully dig up the plant, ensuring a generous amount of soil is kept around the roots to minimize shock. Then, using a sharp spade or knife, the clump is split into smaller sections, each with several shoots and a portion of the root system intact. The divisions should be replanted promptly at the same depth they were growing previously, spaced about 12 to 24 inches (30 to 60 centimeters) apart to allow for growth. Water the new plantings thoroughly to help establish root-to-soil contact and to reduce transplant stress. This process rejuvenates the parent plant while producing new plants that will flower prolifically in subsequent seasons.
