Variety of 28 Daisy Species Suitable for Diverse Gardens
Daisies, beloved for their cheerful and vibrant blooms, are an ideal addition to any garden. These versatile flowers come in various shapes, colours, and sizes, making them a popular choice for gardeners around the world. Here's a closer look at some noteworthy types of daisies and their unique characteristics.
African Daisy (Osteospermum spp.)
These annuals, with their large flowers in pink, orange, red, or yellow, are a sight to behold. They thrive in sunny spots and bloom from summer through fall.
Gloriosa Daisy (Rudbeckia hirta)
A cultivar of the black-eyed Susan, gloriosa daisies are larger and showier, often grown as short-lived perennials or annuals. They bloom in late summer to early fall and grow in USDA zones 3 to 7.
Blue Marguerite Daisy (Felicia amelloides)
Native to South Africa, this daisy is known for its sky-blue petals and bright yellow center. It prefers mild summer temperatures and is hardy in zones 10+ or grown as an annual elsewhere.
Cape Daisy (Dimorphotheca ecklonis)
Related to African daisies, these bushes produce daisy-like flowers in purple, yellow, or white. They bloom late spring through fall, attract bees, and prefer zones 9+ or can be annuals.
Shasta Daisy (Leucanthemum × superbum)
A popular perennial daisy, Shasta daisies feature large white petals with yellow centers, forming bushy clumps up to 3 feet tall. They thrive in full sun and are favoured for cut flowers.
Marguerite Daisy (Argyranthemum frutescens)
Known for aromatic foliage and dainty flowers in white, pink, or yellow, Marguerite daisies are suitable for borders or containers. Native to the Canary Islands, they prefer sunny, warm conditions.
Gerbera Daisy (Gerbera jamesonii)
Often called Transvaal daisies, these vibrant flowers come in orange, pink, red, or yellow. Tender perennials beloved for attracting pollinators, they are commonly grown as annuals in colder climates.
Blanket Flower (Gaillardia spp.)
North and South American natives with warm red, orange, and yellow hues, these drought-tolerant plants prefer sunny, well-drained soil and are resilient in dry climates.
Bidens pilosa (Cobbler's Pegs or Black-Jack)
An annual herbaceous daisy family plant, Bidens pilosa produces small white ray florets and yellow disc florets. It is considered invasive in some regions due to its barbed fruits that cling to animals, aiding seed dispersal.
Field Daisy (Bellis perennis)
Often called the "English Daisy," this daisy is known for its growth in natural settings and garden pathways.
German Chamomile (Matricaria recutita or Matricaria recutita)
Known for its small, scented blooms, German Chamomile is often used in tea.
Golden Shrub Daisy (Euryops pectinatus)
Blooming year-round in warm climates, this daisy has silvery foliage.
Desert Star Daisy (Monoptilon bellidiforme)
Thriving in arid environments, the Desert Star Daisy has short stems and ground-hugging growth.
Montauk Daisies (Nipponanthemum nipponicum)
Native to Japan, Montauk Daisies thrive in coastal gardens.
Sundial Daisy (Engelmannia peristenia)
A hardy wildflower native to North America, Sundial Daisies bloom in sunny yellows, making them perfect for pollinator gardens.
Florist's Daisy (Chrysanthemum × morifolium)
Highly decorative, Florist's Daisy features intricate, pom-pom-like shapes.
Sea Daisy (Erigeron glaucus)
Thriving in salty air and rocky soils, Sea Daisy is ideal for seaside gardens.
Pyrethrum Daisy (Tanacetum coccineum)
With pink or red blooms and feathery foliage, Pyrethrum Daisy is a beautiful addition to any garden.
Tundra Daisies (Chrysanthemum arcticum)
Hardy and thriving in colder regions, Tundra Daisies are a resilient choice for gardeners in USDA zones 4 to 9.
In conclusion, daisies offer a wide variety of choices for gardeners, from the colourful tropical African daisies to the hardy Shasta daisies. Each type offers unique colours, bloom times, size, and environmental tolerances suited for different garden settings and climates. Whether you're looking for annuals or perennials, there's a daisy to suit your gardening needs.
Landscaping projects become more vibrant with the addition of diverse daisies, such as African Daisies and Sea Daisies. Perennials like Shasta Daisies provide not only stunning blooms but also serve as ideal fillers for cut flower arrangements, a perfect touch for a lifestyle seeking home and garden decor.
Annuals such as Blanket Flowers and Bidens pilosa add bursts of warm colour to summer gardens, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies. For a more exotic feel, consider the Marguerite Daisy or the German Chamomile, adding unique aromas to your outdoor space.
Gardeners in warmer climates can opt for year-round bloomers like the Golden Shrub Daisy or the Desert Star Daisy, ensuring continuous colour in their landscapes. For colder regions, Tundra Daisies offer resilient and beautiful alternatives.
Moreover, the fashion-and-beauty enthusiast may appreciate the intricate, pom-pom-like Florist's Daisies as a striking addition to any container garden or bouquet. Exploring daisy varieties can lead to a unique and harmonious blend of flowers in your garden, reflecting your style and enhancing the overall aesthetic of your lifestyle and living space.
