Botanical Classification
Shasta Daisy, scientifically classified as Leucanthemum × superbum, belongs to the Asteraceae family, which includes daisies, sunflowers, and asters. The genus Leucanthemum comprises about 40 species of herbaceous perennials native to Europe and Asia. Leucanthemum × superbum is a hybrid, primarily derived from crossing Leucanthemum maximum (Pyrenees daisy) and Leucanthemum lacustre (Portuguese daisy), with contributions from other species like L. vulgare (oxeye daisy) and L. nipponicum.
The hybrid was developed by American horticulturist Luther Burbank in the late 19th century and named after Mount Shasta in California. Taxonomically, Shasta Daisy is a herbaceous perennial, characterized by its composite flower heads with white ray florets and yellow disc florets, typical of the Asteraceae family. Its hybrid status is indicated by the “×” in its name, reflecting its complex parentage.
History
The Shasta Daisy was created by Luther Burbank in the 1890s through meticulous crossbreeding to combine the best traits of its parent species: the large flowers of L. maximum, the vigor of L. lacustre, and the hardiness of L. vulgare. Burbank’s goal was to produce a robust, long-blooming garden plant with the classic daisy look. Introduced in 1901, it quickly gained popularity for its beauty and ease of cultivation, becoming a staple in American and European gardens.
Named for the snow-white peaks of Mount Shasta, the plant symbolized purity and resilience. Its success spurred further breeding, resulting in numerous cultivars with varied flower forms, sizes, and heights. By the 20th century, Shasta Daisy was a beloved perennial in cottage gardens, borders, and cut flower arrangements, celebrated for its reliability and charm. Its enduring popularity has led to ongoing development of new cultivars, many recognized by awards like the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit (AGM).
Identifying Characteristics
Shasta Daisy is easily recognized by its classic daisy-like flowers, featuring bright white ray florets surrounding a dense, yellow center of disc florets. Flowers are typically 5–10 cm (2–4 inches) in diameter, borne singly or in clusters on sturdy stems. The plant grows 30–90 cm (12–36 inches) tall, with some dwarf cultivars as short as 15 cm (6 inches).
Leaves are dark green, lance-shaped, toothed, and slightly glossy, arranged in a basal rosette with smaller leaves along the stems. The plant forms clumps via rhizomes, spreading moderately over time. Blooms appear from early summer to early fall (June–September), with regular deadheading extending the flowering period. The flowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, and the plant is deer- and rabbit-resistant due to its slightly bitter foliage. Stems are strong, making Shasta Daisy ideal for cutting, with a vase life of 7–10 days.
Native Area & Habitat
As a hybrid, Leucanthemum × superbum has no true native range, but its parent species originate in Europe. L. maximum is native to the Pyrenees, thriving in grassy meadows and rocky slopes, while L. lacustre hails from Portugal, preferring moist, fertile soils. L. vulgare, a common ancestor, is widespread across Europe in fields, roadsides, and disturbed areas.
Shasta Daisy inherits preferences for well-drained, moderately fertile soils with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH (6.5–7.5). It thrives in full sun but tolerates light shade, favoring open, grassy habitats similar to its wild relatives. In cultivation, it adapts to a range of conditions, from temperate gardens to urban settings, provided drainage is adequate.
Distribution
Shasta Daisy is cultivated worldwide, particularly in temperate regions of North America, Europe, Australia, and parts of Asia. It is hardy in USDA zones 5–9, tolerating temperatures as low as -20°C (-4°F) with proper mulching. While not native, it has naturalized in some areas, particularly in North America, where it occasionally escapes gardens into fields or roadsides.
Unlike its relative L. vulgare (oxeye daisy), which is considered invasive in parts of the U.S. and Canada, Shasta Daisy is less aggressive but can spread if not managed. Major cultivation occurs in the U.S., where it was developed, and in Europe, particularly the UK, where many cultivars have earned RHS awards. Commercial production for cut flowers and nursery plants is significant in the Netherlands, the U.S., and Japan.
Landscape and Other Uses
Shasta Daisy is a cornerstone of ornamental gardening, valued for its bright, cheerful blooms and versatility. It is ideal for cottage gardens, mixed borders, and perennial beds, where its white flowers contrast beautifully with colorful perennials like salvia or echinacea. Dwarf cultivars suit containers, rock gardens, or edging, while taller varieties shine at the back of borders.
The plant’s clump-forming habit makes it effective for mass plantings or as a focal point. Its long blooming season and pollinator-friendly flowers enhance garden biodiversity, attracting bees, butterflies, and hoverflies. As a cut flower, Shasta Daisy is popular in bouquets and arrangements, especially for weddings, due to its classic look and durability.
The flowers can be dried for crafts, retaining their shape when pressed. While not edible or medicinal, the plant’s low maintenance and deer resistance make it a practical choice for landscapes. In some regions, it is used in meadow restoration projects, though care is taken to avoid invasiveness.
List of Cultivars
Shasta Daisy cultivars have been extensively developed to offer diverse flower forms, sizes, and heights. Below is a comprehensive list of notable cultivars, many recognized for garden performance:
- ‘Becky’: Large, single white flowers, 7–10 cm (3–4 inches) across, on sturdy 90 cm (36-inch) stems. Long-blooming, RHS Award of Garden Merit winner, ideal for cutting.
- ‘Snowcap’: Compact, 30–45 cm (12–18 inches) tall, with single white flowers, 5–7 cm (2–3 inches) wide. Perfect for containers and borders, reliable in small spaces.
- ‘Alaska’: Classic single white flowers, 7 cm (3 inches) across, 60–75 cm (24–30 inches) tall. Vigorous and cold-hardy, suited for mass plantings.
- ‘Banana Cream’: Creamy yellow flowers fading to white, 10 cm (4 inches) across, 45–60 cm (18–24 inches) tall. Unique color, excellent for cut flowers.
- ‘Crazy Daisy’: Double, frilly white flowers with quilled or twisted petals, 7–8 cm (3 inches) wide, 60–75 cm (24–30 inches) tall. Showy and textured.
- ‘Goldrush’ (or ‘Goldrausch’): Double flowers with golden-yellow centers, 6–8 cm (2.5–3 inches), 45–60 cm (18–24 inches) tall. Striking for borders.
- ‘Snow Lady’: Dwarf, 20–30 cm (8–12 inches) tall, with single white flowers, 5 cm (2 inches) across. Fast-growing, ideal for edging or pots, RHS AGM winner.
- ‘Christine Hagemann’: Double white flowers, 7–8 cm (3 inches) wide, 60–90 cm (24–36 inches) tall. Elegant and floriferous, great for cutting.
- ‘Silver Princess’: Compact, 30–45 cm (12–18 inches) tall, with single white flowers, 6 cm (2.5 inches) wide. Long-blooming, suited for small gardens.
- ‘Real Neat’: Unique tubular white petals, 7 cm (3 inches) across, 45–60 cm (18–24 inches) tall. Modern and eye-catching, good for mixed beds.
- ‘Whoops-a-Daisy’: Compact, 30–38 cm (12–15 inches) tall, with dense, single white flowers, 5–7 cm (2–3 inches) wide. Heavy bloomer, ideal for containers.
- ‘Aglaia’: Semi-double, fringed white flowers, 7 cm (3 inches) wide, 60 cm (24 inches) tall. Delicate and textured, popular for arrangements.
- ‘Highland White Dream’: Large, semi-double white flowers, 8–10 cm (3–4 inches) across, 75 cm (30 inches) tall. Robust and showy, RHS AGM winner.
These cultivars offer a range of options for gardeners, from dwarf forms for small spaces to tall, double-flowered types for dramatic displays. Breeders continue to develop varieties with improved disease resistance and extended bloom times.
Cultivation of Shasta Daisy
Plant Selection and Propagation
Choose healthy Shasta Daisy plants or divisions from reputable nurseries, selecting cultivars like ‘Becky’ for cut flowers or ‘Snowcap’ for compact borders. Propagation is most commonly done by dividing clumps in early spring or fall, as this ensures true-to-type plants and quick establishment.
Dig up mature clumps, separate into sections with 2–3 shoots and healthy roots, and replant immediately. Seeds can be used for some cultivars (e.g., ‘Alaska’), sown indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost, but germination is slow (14–21 days) and seedlings may vary. Use a sterile seed-starting mix and maintain 18–21°C (65–70°F) for best results.
Soil Requirements
Shasta Daisy prefers well-drained, moderately fertile soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH (6.5–7.5). Loamy or sandy loam soils are ideal, but it tolerates poor soils if drainage is adequate. Amend heavy clay soils with compost or sand to prevent waterlogging, which can cause root rot. For containers, use a high-quality potting mix with added perlite for aeration.
Incorporate organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure at planting to boost fertility and improve soil structure, ensuring a strong start for young plants.
Light and Temperature
Plant Shasta Daisy in full sun, providing 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal flowering. It tolerates light shade but produces fewer blooms in low light.
Ideal growing temperatures range from 15–24°C (59–75°F), and the plant is hardy in USDA zones 5–9, surviving winter temperatures as low as -20°C (-4°F) with proper mulching. Protect young plants from late frosts with row covers. In hot climates (above 30°C/86°F), afternoon shade can prevent wilting and extend bloom life.
Planting
Plant divisions or nursery plants in spring after the last frost or in early fall to allow root establishment before winter. Space plants 30–45 cm (12–18 inches) apart to accommodate their clump-forming habit and ensure air circulation.
Dig holes twice the width of the root ball, setting plants at the same depth as in their pots. For containers, use pots at least 25–30 cm (10–12 inches) deep. Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil. Avoid planting in waterlogged areas, as Shasta Daisy is sensitive to excess moisture.
Watering Practices
Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist during establishment, typically 2–3 times per week for the first month. Once established, Shasta Daisy is moderately drought-tolerant, requiring watering every 7–10 days during dry spells, providing about 2.5 cm (1 inch) of water.
Water at the base to keep foliage dry, reducing disease risk. In containers, water when the top 2 cm (1 inch) of soil feels dry, ensuring excess drains freely. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure good drainage.
Fertilization
Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) at planting to support establishment. During the growing season (spring to summer), feed every 4–6 weeks with a water-soluble fertilizer (e.g., 5-10-10) to promote blooming.
Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which encourage leafy growth over flowers. A light application of compost in spring can provide additional nutrients. Cease fertilizing in late summer to allow plants to prepare for dormancy. Over-fertilizing can weaken plants, so use sparingly.
Mulching
Apply a 5–7 cm (2–3 inch) layer of organic mulch, such as bark, straw, or compost, around plants to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
Mulch is crucial in winter to protect roots from freezing in colder zones (5–6) and in summer to keep roots cool in hot climates. Keep mulch 2–3 cm (1 inch) away from stems to prevent rot. Refresh mulch annually in spring to maintain its benefits and enhance soil health over time.
Pruning and Deadheading
Deadhead spent flowers regularly by cutting stems just above a leaf node to encourage continuous blooming from June to September. Pinching back young plants in spring, when 15–20 cm (6–8 inches) tall, promotes bushier growth and more flowers.
In late fall, after the first frost, cut back stems to 5–10 cm (2–4 inches) above ground to tidy plants and prepare for winter dormancy. For vigorous clumps, thin out crowded stems in spring to improve air circulation and reduce disease risk.
Pest and Disease Management
Shasta Daisy is relatively pest-resistant but can attract aphids, leaf miners, and spider mites, which are managed with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Slugs and snails may target young plants; use diatomaceous earth or traps to control them.
Fungal diseases like powdery mildew, leaf spot, or verticillium wilt can occur in humid or poorly drained conditions. Ensure good air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and apply fungicides if needed. Remove and destroy affected foliage to prevent spread. The plant’s bitter foliage deters deer and rabbits.
Support for Taller Cultivars
Taller cultivars like ‘Becky’ or ‘Christine Hagemann’ (60–90 cm/24–36 inches) may require staking to prevent flopping, especially in windy areas or when grown for cut flowers.
Install bamboo stakes or small cages when plants reach 20–30 cm (8–12 inches) tall, tying stems loosely with twine. Horizontal netting with 15 cm (6-inch) squares can support large plantings. Dwarf cultivars like ‘Snowcap’ (30–45 cm/12–18 inches) rarely need staking. Support ensures upright growth and marketable cut flowers.
Division and Maintenance
Divide clumps every 2–3 years in spring끈 or fall to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding. Dig up clumps, separate into sections with healthy roots and shoots, and replant at the same depth, spacing 30–45 cm (12–18 inches) apart.
Division rejuvenates plants, improves flowering, and controls spread. Regularly remove dead or yellowing leaves to keep plants tidy. In colder zones, mulch heavily in winter to protect roots from freezing, and lift and store divisions in extreme climates (zone 4 or below).
Container Cultivation
Shasta Daisy excels in containers, especially dwarf cultivars like ‘Snow Lady’ or ‘Whoops-a-Daisy’. Use pots with drainage holes, at least 25–30 cm (10–12 inches) deep, filled with well-draining potting mix.
Place in full sun, watering when the top 2 cm (1 inch) of soil is dry. Fertilize monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Containers allow flexibility to move plants indoors during winter in colder zones, maintaining them as perennials. Rotate pots weekly for even light exposure and pinch back for bushy growth.
Harvesting and Post-Harvest Care
For cut flowers, harvest Shasta Daisy when flowers are fully open, typically in the morning when stems are turgid. Cut stems at a 45-degree angle just above a leaf node, using clean shears, and place immediately in lukewarm water with floral preservative.
Remove lower leaves to prevent rot. Store cut flowers at 2–4°C (36–39°F) in a cooler to extend vase life, which lasts 7–10 days. Recut stems and change vase water every 2–3 days to maintain freshness. Harvesting encourages further blooming.