Marguerite Daisy
argyranthemum frutescens
Also known as: ["Paris Daisy","Cape Marigold"]
Overview
A popular ornamental plant with daisy-like flowers, native to the Canary Islands.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Argyranthemum |
| Botanical Name: | Argyranthemum frutescens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in full sun or large container
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry climates, rarely required otherwise
- Drainage: Fast-draining
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; lightly prune throughout growing season
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); partial shade in intense summer heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; place in a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade if needed.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer.
Watering
every 3–5 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter
pH: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Use a cactus mix as base; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
60–75°F (15–24°C); prefers mild temperatures; sensitive to frost.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature changes; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth, monthly in winter
Apply fertilizer after watering; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in fall.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm (65–75°F), indirect light
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for drainage
Hormone
Recommended for faster rooting
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 8–12 weeks
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips; cut stems just above a leaf node; remove dead or damaged growth
Pruning Plan
Promote bushy growth and more blooms; remove spent flowers and leggy stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead growth; shape plant evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes
Method
Use fresh potting mix; ensure good drainage; gently tease out root ball if compacted
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; improves growth and flowering.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; 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 in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure pH balance.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, stunted growth, or flower bud abortion.
Cold Stress
Stunted growth, leaf discoloration, and potential frost damage below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; cover with a frost cloth; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering in excessive heat above 85°F (29°C).
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2–4 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); dilute to half strength; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicArgyranthemum frutescens is not considered toxic to cats. It does not produce any known harmful effects when ingested or touched by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicArgyranthemum frutescens is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicArgyranthemum frutescens, commonly known as marguerite daisy, is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested or touched.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Argyranthemum frutescens?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Marguerite Daisy attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Is Argyranthemum frutescens toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 3–5 days during active |
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