Late-flowering Leucanthemella
leucanthemella serotina
Also known as: ["Late-flowering Daisy","Late-flowering Leucanthemum"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant known for its late-season white daisy-like flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Leucanthemella |
| Botanical Name: | Leucanthemella serotina |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a sunny to partially shaded area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate average garden soil.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; as needed to remove dead or damaged stems.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates light shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; ensure adequate ventilation if grown indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid placing near heat sources.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; use raised beds if drainage is poor; mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); can tolerate brief dips to 50°F (10°C).
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent humidity; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing before winter dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps; stem cuttings root easily in warm conditions.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead spent flowers; trim back overgrown stems to a healthy bud or leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape.
Tools
Clean pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Clean tools; remove dead/damaged growth; shape plant as needed; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; 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 maintaining vigor.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; bud drop in fluctuating temperatures.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold; vulnerable to frost damage.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; move potted plants indoors; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow; flowers may fade quickly.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLeucanthemella serotina is not known to be toxic to cats. It poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicLeucanthemella serotina is not known to be toxic to dogs. It poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicLeucanthemella serotina is not known to exhibit any toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Leucanthemella serotina attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators with its late-season blooms.
Q: Is this plant toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: When does Leucanthemella serotina typically flower?
A: It flowers in late summer to early autumn, hence its name.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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