Oxeye daisy - Leucanthemum vulgare (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Oxeye daisy

Also known as: Moon daisy, Marguerite

Leucanthemum vulgare is a very adaptable perennial herb native to Eurasia, commonly known as oxeye daisy. It is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant. Oxeye daisy is a common weed in lawns and crop plants. It is also considered an invasive species in some areas in the world.

Scientific classification

Species

Oxeye daisy (Leucanthemum vulgare)

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

30 cm to 60 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2 cm to 6 cm

Flower Size

White, Yellow

Flower Color

Green, White, Yellow

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Images of Oxeye daisy

Distribution of Oxeye daisy

Distribution Map

Oxeye daisy is native to central and western Europe, the Caucasus, and across Russia. It is naturalized in many parts of the Old World and most of the United States. It is a grassland wildflower, growing in meadowlands, fields, and loose woods with open canopies.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Meadow

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Oxeye daisy is a low-maintenance plant with dainty white blooms that appear during the summer. This plant attracts a variety of pollinators, so it is a perfect addition to a wildflower or butterfly garden. Spreading via rhizomes, this plant can overtake a space so plan accordingly when incorporating into a garden space.

Symbolism

Loyal love, Gentleness, Innocence, determination, good fortune in romance

Interesting Facts

Oxeye daisy and related daisies are said to represent innocence. Perhaps for this reason, they feature in many aspects of culture relating to childhood, including children's games and rhymes. From the making of daisy chains to the game of "he loves me, he loves me not," in which girls traditionally pulled off petals one by one to determine the feelings of a love interest, daisies have long been associated with youth.

Name Story

Oxeye daisy: The genus name, Leucanthemum is actually from the Greek word, leukos meaning white, and anthemon meaning flower and resembling the Ox's eye. So, it is called Oxeye daisy.

Marguerite: This plant was called marguerite long ago, which means flower in old French. The word comes from the petal-pulling game "he loves me, he doesn't love me" or "effeuiller La Marguerite" in French.

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Toxicity

Oxeye daisy causes contact dermatitis in allergic people, leading to inflammation and itchy rashes. Toxic to cats and dogs, the plant's flowers and leaves can cause gastrointestinal upset and serious symptoms if ingested. Immediate veterinary care is crucial if poisoning is suspected.

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Weed Control

In Europe and temperate Asia, oxeye daisy is a native, widespread flowering perennial. It has been introduced into other temperate-zone countries, including the US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. It has also been reported to spread further into Asia and high elevation ground in subtropical regions.

Although it has been naturalized for a long time in the countries listed above, oxeye daisy is considered invasive because it is a prolific seed producer and also spreads via rhizomes. A mature plant can produce up to 26,000 seeds which can remain viable for 40 years and are easily dispersed by animals, vehicles, water, and contaminated agricultural seeds. It is often a weed of naturally poor soils, degraded pastures, and roadsides. Oxeye daisy can reduce the quality of the pasture as cattle won't eat it, and a dense infestation can suppress native plants and cause soil issues in sensitive ecosystems.

How to Control It

The best season to control oxeye daisy is during spring before they set seeds. Removal or control should occur before flowering to prevent seed spread.

Hand Pulling: Grasp the base of oxeye daisy firmly and pull gently to remove the entire root system from the ground. Ensure you remove the plants before they flower to avoid seed dispersal.
Mulching: Cover the soil around desired plants with a thick layer of organic material like straw or wood chips to suppress oxeye daisy growth by blocking sunlight and preventing seed germination.
Mowing: Regularly mow the area where oxeye daisy is not desired before the plants flower. This method weakens oxeye daisy by preventing it from developing seeds and spreading.
Dense Planting: Plant competitive species or cultivate a dense lawn to outcompete oxeye daisy by limiting space and resources, which keeps its growth in check.
Vinegar Solution: Apply a solution of vinegar and water directly onto oxeye daisy, being careful to avoid nearby plants you wish to keep. This acidic mixture can help kill young oxeye daisy plants.

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Quickly Identify Oxeye daisy

Dense mat of lush green foliage

Bright white daisy-like flowers with yellow centers

Sturdy stems reaching 2 feet (60 cm) in height

Oblong, slightly toothed leaves providing textural backdrop

Capacity for spreading via rhizomes

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Care Guide for Oxeye daisy

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Native to temperate regions, oxeye daisy thrives in moderate moisture environments. It prefers consistently moist soil, tolerating occasional dry spells. Weekly watering supports growth, and seasonal rainfall aids its flourishing during the growing season as an outdoor plant found in meadows and fields.

Fertilize: For optimal blooming, oxeye daisy requires balanced nutrition through monthly fertilization during the growing season, using a high-phosphorous blend before flowering. Water after fertilizing to aid absorption and adjust quantities based on oxeye daisy's size. Reduce fertilization during dormancy to prevent harm.

Pruning: Oxeye daisy features striking white flowers with yellow centers and thrives perennially. Prune in early to late spring, deadhead spent blooms, and thin crowded growth for better air circulation. Regular pruning rejuvenates older plants. Always use clean, sharp tools for effective maintenance.

Propagation: Oxeye daisy propagates well through division, ideally in early growth. Separate root clumps while retaining a portion of roots to minimize stress. Replant in well-drained soil and maintain consistent moisture for established growth, promoting root development and overall vigor.

Repotting: Repot oxeye daisy every 2-3 years in early spring in a slightly larger container with good drainage. It grows into a bush up to 2 feet tall. After repotting, water thoroughly and provide sunlight and regular watering for optimal blooming.

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