When it comes to daisies, there are several different types that you can choose from to add beauty and charm to your garden or landscape. Each type has its own unique characteristics and growing requirements, so it’s important to choose the right one for your specific needs. Let’s explore some of the different types of daisies available.
1. Shasta Daisy (Leucanthemum x superbum): The Shasta daisy is one of the most popular and widely recognized types of daisies. It features large, white, petal-like flowers with a bright yellow center. Shasta daisies are known for their long blooming season, typically starting in late spring and lasting through summer. They are easy to grow and can reach a height of 2 to 3 feet. These daisies are great for borders, flower beds, or as cut flowers.
2. African Daisy (Osteospermum spp.): African daisies are native to South Africa and are known for their vibrant, colorful flowers. They come in a wide range of colors including purple, pink, orange, and yellow. African daisies bloom profusely from spring to fall, adding a burst of color to any garden. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil. African daisies are often used in container gardens or as ground covers.
3. Gerbera Daisy (Gerbera jamesonii): Gerbera daisies are popular for their large, daisy-like flowers that come in a variety of colors including red, pink, orange, yellow, and white. They are native to South Africa and are often used as cut flowers or in floral arrangements. Gerbera daisies require full sun and well-drained soil. They can be grown in containers or in the ground, and they make excellent border plants or focal points in a garden.
4. Oxeye Daisy (Leucanthemum vulgare): The Oxeye daisy is a perennial wildflower that is native to Europe and Asia but has naturalized in many parts of North America. It features white, daisy-like flowers with yellow centers and grows to a height of 1 to 3 feet. Oxeye daisies are hardy and adaptable, tolerating a wide range of soil conditions. They are often found in meadows, prairies, and along roadsides. However, they can be invasive in some regions, so it’s important to check with your local extension office before planting them.
5. Nippon or Montauk Daisy (Nipponanthemum nipponicum): The Nippon or Montauk daisy is a delightful variety that resembles the Shasta daisy but has its own unique characteristics. It features white flowers and can grow up to 2 to 3 feet tall. What sets this daisy apart is its late blooming season, starting in September and lasting until the first frost. It can even withstand light frost and continue to bloom. The Nippon daisy is a great option for extending your garden’s blooming season into the fall.
Daisies come in various types, each with its own distinct beauty and growing requirements. From the classic Shasta daisy to the vibrant African daisy and the cheerful Gerbera daisy, there is a daisy for every garden and landscape. Whether you want early summer blooms or a burst of color in the fall, daisies can add charm and beauty to any outdoor space. So, consider incorporating these lovely flowers into your garden and enjoy their beauty all season long.
