Flowers of Shasta Daisy Brighten the Garden
Old-Fashioned Favorite has Bright White Petals and Golden Centers
Jul 16, 2009
The Shasta Daisy (Leucanthemum x superbum), a member of the Asteraceae family, was formerly classified as Chrysanthemum, but lacked some characteristics of that genus.
Flowers of Classic Daisy Appearance
This hardy, herbaceous perennial plant presents a wonderful display singly, or in the perennial border. The white-petalled flowers with bright yellow centers appear on single erect stems. Individual blossoms measure three or four inches in diameter. They begin to appear in early summer (depends upon region where they’re grown), and continue until early fall if spent blossoms are regularly clipped off (deadheaded).
Shastas planted in a mixed border provide wonderful contrast to other vibrantly-colored flowers. Beautiful in cut-flower arrangements, they will last up to ten days when water is kept fresh. The flowers are attractive to bees and butterflies.
Strong and upright, the old-fashioned Shasta Daisy plants are three feet tall with a spread of about two feet when well established. The leaves are blade-shaped, smooth, and somewhat thick. Narrow and serrated, they can be about five inches long and more than one inch wide. There are smaller leaves on the erect stems that hold the flowers. When the blossoms are finished, the dense foliage maintains its rich color.
Planting and Care of Low Maintenance Perennial
When planting in spring or fall, add a good mix of compost to the soil to assist moisture retention. The Shasta Daisy is a low maintenance plant that thrives in sunny locations. It will grow in most well-drained garden soils, and should be watered during summer during extended dry periods. Extra large clumps should be divided by root every three or four years. After the first heavy frost, cut the stems back to about two inches above the soil line, and add leaves or other protective mulch.
Diseases and Pests that Could Affect Shasta Daisy Plants
Leaf spot occurs on all commonly grown trees, shrubs, and perennials, including Shasta Daisy. Caused by fungi during cool, wet weather early in the growing season, it is not a problem during later hot periods.
Powdery mildew occurs during hot, humid periods. One effective method of avoiding it is to be sure all watering is done at the roots, not the foliage.
Caterpillars, beetles, and leaf miners sometimes cause damage.
There are now many cultivars of the old-fashioned perennial. Information about the Shasta Daisy suitable to your requirements and locality, is available on this site and many others.
Shasta Daisy photographs attached to this article are of the ‘Alaska’ variety. It has been moved and divided many times, and survived harsh winters in zone four. There have been no significant problems with disease or pests.
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