Marsh Oxeye
leucanthemum paludosum
Also known as: ["Artemisia paludosa","Chrysanthemum paludosum"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe, known for its bright yellow daisy-like flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Leucanthemum |
| Botanical Name: | Leucanthemum paludosum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed in a sunny area, or container with adequate drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°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 sandy or clay soils if amended.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Deadhead spent blooms regularly during the growing season; perform a light shaping prune in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on removing dead or spent flowers and shaping the plant without drastic cut
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer blooms.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight to prevent scorching; provide afternoon shade in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues in humid conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants regularly for even growth; avoid placing in drafty areas; use sheer curtains to filter intense midday sun if needed.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep roots; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot; adjust frequency based on weather and soil conditions.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is well-aerated; avoid compacted soil; maintain consistent moisture levels.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); can tolerate cooler nights but avoid prolonged exposure below 50°F (10°C).
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; maintain consistent moderate temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing when blooms fade.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting just below a leaf node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix, such as a mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; plants may take 2–3 months to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic bags or propagation dome.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, clean tools to prevent disease; maintain high humidity to prevent wilting; ensure good drainage to avoid rot.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp shears to cut spent blooms just above a leaf node or healthy bud; shape by trimming back stray stems.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent blooms to promote continuous flowering.
Tools
Pruning shears, clean scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or spent blooms; shape as needed; avoid cutting into old wood.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one, with a diameter about 2 inches wider.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead or crowded roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for rejuvenation and fresh soil.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency with seasons.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7–10 days in warm weather, reducing frequency in cooler months or during dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and structure; incorporate perlite or sand for better drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold; leaf scorch in intense sun.
Cold Stress
Prolonged cold can cause root damage, slow growth, or death; frost can damage or kill tender parts of the plant.
Solution: Protect with a layer of mulch; move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location; use frost cloth or row covers in gardens during cold snaps.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, reduced flowering, and dehydration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLeucanthemum paludosum is not considered toxic to cats. It does not produce any known compounds that are harmful when ingested in typical quantities.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicLeucanthemum paludosum is not considered toxic to dogs. It does not produce any known compounds that are harmful when ingested in typical quantities.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicLeucanthemum paludosum is not considered toxic to humans. It does not produce any known compounds that are harmful when ingested in typical quantities.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Leucanthemum paludosum toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water this plant?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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