Leucanthemum x superbum: Shasta Daisy

This Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ publication is part of a document series originally written by Edward F. Gilman. Visit https://ffl.ifas.ufl.edu/ to learn more about creating and maintaining attractive landscapes that protect Florida's water resources and environment.

Introduction

Shasta daisy (Leucanthemum x superbum) is an herbaceous perennial in the Asteraceae plant family. This hybrid was created by Luther Burbank in the 1980s. It is semi-evergreen to deciduous, depending on the planting zone. This plant can be maintained as a true perennial in its range but will act as an annual in USDA zones 9B through 11B, as the summer conditions are not appropriate for this species. It has a spreading growth form and reaches a height of 1 to 2 feet and spread of 2 to 4 feet (Figure 1). Foliage is oblanceolate, dark green, coarsely and bluntly toothed, and may reach a length of 1 to 4 inches (Figure 2). The showy saucer-shaped flowers are produced atop 3-foot-tall stems and are daisy-like with a yellow center and white petals. Flowers are medium sized, 2 to 3 inches across (Figure 3). Shasta daisy makes a good addition to pollinator gardens, may be used in containers or above-ground planters, is suitable for borders in landscape beds, and may be used as cut flowers.

General Information

Scientific name: Leucanthemum x superbum

Previous name(s): Chrysanthemum x superbum (synonym)

Pronunciation: lew-KAN-theh-mum x soo-PUR-bum

Common name(s): shasta daisy

Family: Asteraceae

Plant type: perennial; herbaceous

USDA hardiness zones: 5B through 9A (Figures 4 and 5)

Planting month for zone 7: Mar. to Aug.

Planting month for zone 8: Mar. to Nov.

Planting month for zone 9: year-round

Origin: not native to North America

Uses: cut flowers; mass planting; groundcover; attracts butterflies; edging; container or above-ground planter

Availability: somewhat available, may have to go out of the region to find the plant

Description

Height: 1 to 2 feet

Spread: 2 to 4 feet

Plant habit: spreading

Plant density: moderate

Growth rate: moderate

Texture: medium

Use and Management

Shasta daisy generally produces the best blooms when located in full sun; however, in Florida the plant generally benefits from being in partial shade, as the warmer climate can stress a plant located in full sun. Soil conditions are adaptable but should be fertile and well drained. The taller varieties of this plant may be pinched back at the nodes before flower development to encourage a fuller growth form. Providing proper cultural conditions, including avoiding overwatering and proper spacing to allow for air circulation, promotes plant health. There are disease resistant cultivars available that are resistant to phytophthora and leaf spot. Other cultivars have double or semi-double flower structures.

Propagation is by seed or division. This plant reproduces quickly.

Design Considerations

With its classic white and yellow blooms on sturdy, upright stems, the shasta daisy provides cheerful color and an informal cottage-garden texture. It excels as a border plant, in massed drifts for high-impact seasonal displays, or as a reliable filler among mixed perennials. For dynamic combinations, pair it with sun-loving companions that offer contrasting colors and forms, such as purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea), salvia (Salvia spp.), and black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta). Integrate ornamental grasses for structural variety and use low-mounding perennials like catmint or dwarf lantana at its base to create a lush, layered look that extends seasonal interest.

Pests and Diseases

Pest issues include leaf miners. Disease issues include leaf spots, stem rots, and phytophthora. Select disease resistant cultivars if possible.