Leucanthemum x superbum Play pronunciation

Shasta daisy is a hybrid cross of L. lacustre x L. maximum x L. vulgare and an old-fashioned favorite for perennial borders and cut flowers, with single- or double-flowered cultivars available. It was developed in the 1890s near Mt. Shasta, California by Luther Burbank. Previously, this plant was under the genus Chrysanthemum, but it is now a member of the daisy family (Asteraceae). This flowering perennial hybrid grows 2-4 feet tall and 1-3 feet wide, with an upright clumping habit. The foliage is dark green, lanceolate or oblong, with dentate margins. The flowers measure 2-3 inches in diameter and have white petal-rays and a bright yellow central disc.

Plant in average to dry, well-drained, organic-rich soil in full sun to partial shade. It is hardy in zones 5 through 9 and intolerant of winter wet or poorly drained soils. Once established, they are drought-tolerant and deer- and rabbit-resistant. The blooms are attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinating insects. To encourage re-blooming, deadhead spent flowers. Divide the plant every 2-3 years in the spring or fall to prevent overcrowding. 

Shasta daisies are mildly toxic to humans and pets if ingested. Wear protective clothing and gloves when handling this plant to avoid contact dermatitis.

Use in the perennial border, containers, cutting garden, or cottage garden. Cultivars come in different sizes and flower forms.

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems:  Monitor for aphids, leaf miners, and spider mites. May be susceptible to verticillium wilt, leaf spot, powdery mildew, and stem rot. If food is scarce, this plant is occasionally damaged by deer.

Some cultivars have shown excellent resistance to phytophthora. Other cultivars in the same study have shown fair resistance to phytophthora and poor resistance to leaf spot. (Fair = fewer than half die; poor = more than half die).

More information on Leucanthemum vulgare.