Engelmannia peristenia

Named after George Engelmann, Engelmann's Daisy is a perennial in the aster family with showy yellow flowers and stout stems that give it an upright habit. Mr. Engelmann was born in Germany and later settled in Missouri.  Upon his death in 1884, much of his collection of plants were donated to the Missouri Botanical Garden.  

This south-central North America native is found along roadsides and can be quite drought-resistant due to its deep tap root. This daisy is native to the south-central USA, primarily in TX and surrounding states east to Louisiana and north to southern Colorado. It grows up to 3 feet tall and blooms from March to July or longer with yellow flower heads that attract butterflies and bees. Deer, rabbits and livestock enjoy munching on the leaves as they are high in protein.

Use this plant in well-drained medium to dry soil in the front or mid-border or in a meadow or naturalized area. If the plant begins to look sad in the summer, cut it back, and it will usually bloom again. It is tolerant of full sun to dappled sun conditions.  The clusters of flowers open in the late afternoon, remaining open until the next day, when the heat and sun will cause the flowers to fold up into themselves.  

Cutting back in the later part of the summer may promote fall blooms.

Its deep taproot makes this a good choice when planting for the prevention or control of erosion.  This taproot also makes timing crucial when transplanting.  Winter is the best choice.  

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: No significant problems