Tuesday, December 22, 2009

Shasta Daisy







Botanical name: Chrysanthemum maximum "Alaska" (Asteraceae)

Description
A hardy perennial, forming dense colonies once established. Native to Europe, it has naturalized throughout all regions of the United States. The white petalled flowers with golden yellow centers are borne individually on single erect stems. Compared to its cousin, the Ox-Eyed Daisy, Shasta Daisies generally grow 6 to 12 inches taller and have a larger flower head diameter. Excellent as a ground cover or border plant since the foliage is attractive and remains green all year. It is an ideal cut flower, lasting up to 10 days in arrangements.

How to grow
Prefers full sun to partial shade in fertile soil. This perennial thrives in rich, moist soil, as long as it drains well - especially in winter. These plants are heavy feeders, and will benefit from an application of liquid or granular perennial fertilizer in the spring, and again in mid-summer.

Height: 1-3 feet
Germination: 15-30 days
Optimum soil temperature for germination: 70F
Sowing depth: 1/16"
Blooming period: June-September
USDA hardiness zones 3-8

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