Shasta Daisy
leucanthemum adustum
Also known as: ["Shasta Daisy","Leucanthemum vulgare"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with white ray florets and yellow disc florets, native to Europe and naturalized in North America.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Leucanthemum |
| Botanical Name: | Leucanthemum adustum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a location with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°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, loamy soil with organic matter; can tolerate average garden soil.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Deadhead spent flowers regularly during blooming season; shape prune in early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on removing dead or damaged growth and spent blooms.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day); partial shade in hot climates to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; provide shade during peak afternoon hours in hot regions; ensure good air circulation to prevent heat stress.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants regularly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light indoors; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure good aeration; mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates light frosts but may struggle in extreme heat.
Monitor temperature changes; adjust watering and light exposure accordingly; protect from sudden temperature shifts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; use a balanced NPK ratio for healthy growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings below a 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 with perlite or sand; can also be rooted in water initially.
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 wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems for cuttings; maintain high humidity to prevent wilting; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools; cut just above a leaf node or bud; remove no more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to promote reblooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools before use; prune dead or diseased parts first; make clean cuts; dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation and fresh soil.
Checklist
Choose a clean pot with drainage; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; 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 based on season and weather.
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 and fungal growth; allow excess water to drain away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat; leaf damage or slowed growth in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth and cause leaf discoloration; prolonged cold may lead to root damage or death.
Solution: Provide frost protection with mulch or row covers; move potted plants indoors during freezes; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering; may lead to dehydration and stress.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type and dilution; water before fertilizing; apply evenly around the base; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLeucanthemum adustum is not known to be toxic to cats. It poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicLeucanthemum adustum is not known to be toxic to dogs. It poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicLeucanthemum adustum is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Leucanthemum adustum toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water Leucanthemum adustum?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Leucanthemum adustum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
