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Description
Leucanthemum Vulgare, commonly known as the oxeye daisy, is a herbaceous perennial plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia but has been introduced and naturalized in North America, where it is considered an invasive species. The plant can grow up to 1 meter in height and has a spread of 30-60 cm. It produces numerous stems with green leaves and a solitary flower head at the top of each stem. The flowers are composed of white petals and yellowish disc florets in the center.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Leucanthemum |
Appearance
Leucanthemum Vulgare has a simple and elegant appearance. Its leaves are lance-shaped, slightly toothed, and can grow up to 10 cm long. The stems are hairy, branching, and support a single flower head that can be up to 7 cm in diameter. The flower head has a yellow center and white petals that surround it. The petals are narrow and elongated, measuring around 2-3 cm long. The plant blooms from June to September, and its flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other insects.
Care Guide
Leucanthemum Vulgare is easy to care for and does not require much maintenance. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:- Water: The plant requires moderate watering. Water it once a week or when the soil feels dry to the touch.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is fertile and rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: The plant thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Leucanthemum Vulgare is generally healthy and resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be attacked by some pests, including:- Aphids: Small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the leaves and stems.- Spider mites: Tiny insects that spin webs and feed on the plant’s sap, causing yellowing and wilting of the leaves.- Slugs and snails: These pests feed on the plant’s leaves, leaving behind large holes.The plant can also be affected by some diseases, including:- Powdery mildew: A fungal disease that causes a powdery white coating on the leaves and stems.- Root rot: A fungal disease that affects the plant’s roots, causing them to rot and the plant to wilt.
Habitat
Leucanthemum Vulgare is native to Europe and Asia but has been introduced and naturalized in North America, where it is considered an invasive species. The plant grows in a wide range of habitats, including meadows, pastures, roadsides, and disturbed areas. It prefers sunny locations and well-drained soils.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Leucanthemum Vulgare poisonous?
A: No, the plant is not poisonous, but it can cause skin irritation in some people.
Q: Can Leucanthemum Vulgare be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage and the soil is well-drained.
Q: Can Leucanthemum Vulgare be propagated by seed?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated by seed. The seeds should be sown in spring or autumn in well-drained soil.
Q: How often should I prune Leucanthemum Vulgare?
A: You should deadhead the plant regularly to promote new blooms. Cut back the plant to the ground in autumn or early spring.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Leucanthemum Vulgare:- Leucanthemum lacustre- Leucanthemum maximum- Leucanthemum x superbum- Chrysanthemum maximum- Tanacetum vulgare
References
– “Leucanthemum vulgare.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 25, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c949.- “Leucanthemum vulgare.” Plantwise Knowledge Bank. Accessed August 25, 2021. https://www.plantwise.org/knowledgebank/datasheet/48365.
