Maximilian's Shasta Daisy
leucanthemum maximum
Also known as: ["Shasta Daisy","Maximilian Daisy"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with large, white, daisy-like flowers and dark green foliage.
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 maximum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or border in a sunny location
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; lightly trim throughout the growing season as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless rejuvenating an older plant.
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 if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday heat in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent mildew.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even sun exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; 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; prioritize morning watering to reduce fungal risk.
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; test pH annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Hardy to USDA zones 5–9.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly; apply before new growth emerges; stop fertilizing in late summer to prepare for dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division in early spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is not in full bloom.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), high humidity, and partial shade.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pots within 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead spent blooms; cut back leggy stems to promote bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim back foliage in late fall to maintain shape.
Tools
Hand pruners, clean shears.
Checklist
Use clean tools; cut just above a leaf node; remove dead or diseased growth; wear gloves.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Gently remove plant; trim roots if crowded; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the container.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; ensure drainage holes; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; avoid overhead watering; ensure proper drainage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Ensure water penetrates deeply to encourage root growth, and avoid wetting foliage to prevent disease.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth, reducing frequency in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or aged manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or wilting in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Leaves may turn yellow or brown; growth slows or halts; risk of root damage in prolonged freezing.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect with frost cloth in extreme cold; ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; increased susceptibility to pests and diseases.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use reflective mulch to reduce soil temperature.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in early spring; avoid late-season feeding; water after application.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can reduce flowering.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLeucanthemum maximum is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of toxicity in felines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicLeucanthemum maximum is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicLeucanthemum maximum is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It is commonly used in gardens and floral arrangements without reported adverse effects.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Leucanthemum maximum?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Leucanthemum maximum attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Is Leucanthemum maximum toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
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
