Leucanthemum Maximum
Contents
Description
Leucanthemum Maximum, commonly known as Shasta Daisies, are a popular perennial plant that is native to Europe and Asia. The plant produces large, white, daisy-like flowers with yellow centers that bloom from late spring to early fall. The flowers can grow up to 4 inches in diameter and reach a height of 2-3 feet. The plant has a clumping habit and produces multiple stems that are covered in green, lance-shaped leaves.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Leucanthemum |
Appearance
Shasta Daisies are known for their large, white flowers that have a yellow center. The flowers can grow up to 4 inches in diameter and bloom from late spring to early fall. The plant has a clumping habit and produces multiple stems that are covered in green, lance-shaped leaves. Shasta Daisies can reach a height of 2-3 feet and have a spread of 1-2 feet.
Care Guide
Water
Shasta Daisies prefer well-draining soil and do not like to be over-watered. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter months.
Fertilization
Fertilize Shasta Daisies with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer in the spring and again in the fall. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months.
Soil
Shasta Daisies prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types but does not like to be planted in heavy clay soil.
Sunlight
Shasta Daisies prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade. The plant will produce more flowers if it is planted in full sun.
Hardiness Zones
Shasta Daisies are hardy in USDA Zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Shasta Daisies are generally pest and disease resistant but can be susceptible to powdery mildew, leaf spot, and aphids. To prevent these issues, avoid planting the plant in areas with poor air circulation and keep the foliage dry when watering.
Habitat
Shasta Daisies are native to Europe and Asia but have been widely cultivated in North America. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can be found in meadows, fields, and gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Shasta Daisies be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Shasta Daisies can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots and has drainage holes.
Q: How often should Shasta Daisies be divided?
A: Shasta Daisies should be divided every 3-4 years in the spring or fall.
Q: Are Shasta Daisies deer resistant?
A: Yes, Shasta Daisies are deer resistant.
Q: Can Shasta Daisies be grown from seed?
A: Yes, Shasta Daisies can be grown from seed but the plant will not bloom until the second year.
Related Plants
- Leucanthemum x superbum ‘Becky’
- Leucanthemum x superbum ‘Snowcap’
- Leucanthemum x superbum ‘Alaska’
- Leucanthemum x superbum ‘Crazy Daisy’
References
- “Leucanthemum Maximum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d180.
- “Leucanthemum Maximum.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/23981/Leucanthemum-maximum/Details.
- “Shasta Daisy.” The Old Farmer’s Almanac, www.almanac.com/plant/shasta-daisy.
