Shasta daisy (Leucanthemum maximum)

Shasta daisy

Also known as: Max daisy, Pyrenees chrysanthemum

Shasta daisy (Leucanthemum maximum) is a flowering perennial herb native to France and Spain. But you can find their worldwide due to the introduction for ornamental purposes. Shasta daisy and hybrids are widely used in gardens, fertile soil with substantial drainage is best for planting the shasta daisy in this setting. As many asters, they are prone to escape to the wild, so please handle with care.

Scientific classification

Species

Shasta daisy (Leucanthemum maximum)

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Perennial, Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

Late summer, Early fall

Harvest Time

10 cm to 50 cm

Plant Height

10 cm to 50 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

5 cm to 8 cm

Flower Size

White, Yellow

Flower Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Shasta daisy

Distribution of Shasta daisy

Distribution Map

Shasta daisy is native to the Pyrenees mountain range in France and Spain. It is found in full sun among rocky areas. It has been introduced to Dominica.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Meadow, cultivated beds

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

The shasta daisy offers ornamental interest with long-lasting blooms that change colors from vivid yellow to white. It is most often kept in perennial borders and containers of cutting gardens as a plant that resists animal, drought, and dry soil stressors. It can also be kept in perennial and cottage gardens. The shasta daisy does well when planted beside yarrow, cranesbill, and montbretia.

Symbolism

Sincerity and friendship

Interesting Facts

Shasta daisys are often mistaken for daisies, but there are differences between the two. Shasta daisys attract insects when they bloom, so its leaf petals are always bitten, leaving its beauty flawed.

Name Story

Shasta daisy: It is a commonly grown flowering herbaceous perennial plant with the classic daisy appearance of white petals like ray florets surrounding a yellow disc which is similar to the oxeye daisy also known as Leucanthemum vulgare. Shasta was named after Mount Shasta because its petals were the color of the snow.

Get quick plant knowledge with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant identification and learn about its name, symbolism, interesting facts, uses, and more.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for Shasta daisy

Twice per week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Shasta daisy thrives in moist environments, requiring consistent watering twice a week without waterlogging. It flourishes outdoors with ample sunlight and well-draining soil, supporting its lush foliage and vibrant blooms while mimicking its native habitat's moisture levels.

Fertilize: Optimal fertilization for shasta daisy includes balanced nutrition and high phosphorus fertilizers every 6-8 weeks during growth. Water after application to prevent root burn, and reduce feeding in dormancy. Seasonal adjustments are vital; limit feeding in fall and winter to avoid overloading.

Pruning: Shasta daisy thrives with early to late spring pruning. Remove faded flowers and damaged stems to stimulate growth and prolong blooming. Shear spent blooms for summer flowering, and trim crowded or leggy stems to enhance airflow and minimize disease risk, ensuring a vigorous plant.

Propagation: Native to Europe, shasta daisy flourishes in well-drained soil with full sun to partial shade. Propagation by division involves splitting the plant with roots and shoots. Carefully tease apart the root ball and replant divisions at the same depth, ensuring proper spacing for growth.

Repotting: Shasta daisy should be repotted every 2-3 years in spring to support vigorous growth. Use a spacious pot for healthy root expansion, place in bright, indirect light, and maintain consistently moist soil for recovery. Attentive care is essential for thriving growth.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free