Leucanthemum

Leucanthemum, a genus of flowering plants in the Asteraceae family, is primarily found in southern and central Europe. Some species have been introduced to other continents and are cultivated as ornamental plants. The name Leucanthemum comes from the Greek words for "white" and "flower." Commonly referred to as daisies, Leucanthemum species, such as the ox-eye daisy and Shasta daisy, add beauty to sunny borders and cottage gardens. These clump-forming perennials have upright stems and dark green lance-shaped foliage at the base. From July to August, they produce large, semi-double white daisy-like flowers with bright yellow centers. Shasta Daisies, in particular, are compact and have lightly ruffled, double white flowers that gradually lighten from bright yellow. They are excellent for cutting and can be used for edging or in mixed containers. To maintain their vigor, divide plants every 2 to 3 years in the spring. It's important not to mistake the well-behaved garden hybrid Shasta Daisy for the weedy Ox-eye Daisy.