How to Grow and Care for Bellis

The common daisy produces iconic flowers that are seen in European and American folklore dating back centuries. It is often a representation of childlike innocence. The plant is edible and can be used in small quantities in salads, sandwiches, soups, or tea. However, it can also become toxic and cause digestive problems if eaten in quantity.

Southern daisy (Bellis sylvestris) is a perennial native to Europe but has found its way onto other continents and is readily seen as a wildflower along roadsides. The propensity to grow in areas it's not wanted has put the southern daisy on various "noxious weed" lists worldwide. It has, however, been cultivated into well-behaved varieties for use in small gardens.

Annual daisy was described, with its name validly published, by Carl Linnaeus in 1753. Its common name derives from the fact that all leaves, stems, and roots of this plant die annually, hence the word "annual," and "daisy," which means "eye of the day," in reference to the fact that the flowers open during the day and close when the sun goes down.

Also known as english daisy 'Bellissima', this adorable flower is a staple in gardens and meadows alike. Historically, the petals were used as a medicinal remedy for bruises and cuts. Bees and butterflies love the vibrant blooms, which range from white to deep pink.

Common daisy 'Rob Roy' is an old-fashioned Common daisy cultivar, noted for its adorable, double, crimson red flowers with prominent yellow centers. Besides for its physical characteristics, this cultivar was selected to be very drought tolerant and adaptable to arid growing conditions.