Alpine Marguerite
leucanthemopsis alpina
Also known as: ["Alpine Daisy","Alpine Fleabane"]
Overview
A small, herbaceous perennial with daisy-like flowers, native to alpine regions of Europe.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Leucanthemopsis |
| Botanical Name: | Leucanthemopsis alpina |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or raised beds with excellent drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly alkaline soil with good organic matter; a mix of loam, sand, and compost works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering or every 2–3 months to maintain shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct or bright indirect light daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on outdoor vs. indoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; provide shade in peak heat; rotate for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; avoid waterlogging; adjust frequency based on season and growth stage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly alkaline, ideally 6.5–7.5.
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for fertility.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 50–70°F (10–21°C); tolerates cold but prefers not to exceed 75°F (24°C) in summer.
Avoid sudden temperature swings; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Use a balanced fertilizer; dilute to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth only.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 65–75°F (18–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead spent flowers; trim leggy stems to just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to prolong blooming.
Tools
Sharp, clean pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Clean tools; deadhead spent blooms; trim leggy growth; shape as needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation and fresh soil.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage. Water until it drains from the bottom, then discard excess to prevent standing water.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth in spring and summer, reducing frequency in fall and winter to prevent root rot. Allow the top inch of soil to dry between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; adjust pH with lime if needed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, stunted growth, or premature flowering in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to root damage if temperatures drop below freezing.
Solution: Protect from frost with mulch or frost cloth; ensure good drainage to prevent cold waterlogging; move potted plants indoors if temperatures drop below 40°F (4°C).
Hot Stress
Causes wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering; may lead to dehydration and heat shock.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; water deeply but avoid overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth stage; use diluted fertilizer; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLeucanthemopsis alpina is not known to be toxic to cats. It is considered safe for cats to ingest or come into contact with.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicLeucanthemopsis alpina is not known to be toxic to dogs. It is considered safe for dogs to ingest or come into contact with.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicLeucanthemopsis alpina is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption and handling.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Leucanthemopsis alpina grow?
A: It typically grows to 10–20 cm in height.
Q: Does it require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Q: Is it suitable for rock gardens?
A: Yes, it is well-suited for rock gardens and alpine plantings.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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