Montpellier Daisy
leucanthemum monspeliense
Also known as: ["Montpellier Shasta Daisy","Rock Daisy"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to the Mediterranean region, known for its daisy-like white flowers with yellow centers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Leucanthemum |
| Botanical Name: | Leucanthemum monspeliense |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: border plantings or rock gardens in full sun
- 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 root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Deadhead regularly during flowering; prune lightly in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless rejuvenating an older plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but blooms best in direct sunlight.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun if moved from shade; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent scorching.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid placing near reflective surfaces that intensify light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep roots; avoid waterlogging; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; test pH before planting; amend with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but may struggle in prolonged heat above 85°F (29°C).
Protect from frost; water early to avoid heat stress; adjust care based on seasonal shifts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop feeding when plant is dormant; use organic options for gentle nutrition.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Late spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F).
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–4 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut stems just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape.
Tools
Sharp bypass pruners, clean scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged stems; remove spent blooms; shape as needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for rejuvenation.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; allow excess water to drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth, reducing frequency in winter; adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf burn in excessive heat; stunted growth or bud drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in hard freezes.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; move potted plants to sheltered locations; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer label for NPK ratio; dilute correctly; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLeucanthemum monspeliense is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of toxicity in felines after ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicLeucanthemum monspeliense is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines after ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicLeucanthemum monspeliense is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It is a wildflower species that has no known adverse effects on human health.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Leucanthemum monspeliense be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Montpellier Daisy attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Is this plant suitable for rock gardens?
A: Yes, it thrives in well-drained, rocky soils and is well-suited for rock gardens.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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