Leucanthemum vulgare aka Ox Eye Daisy

Leucanthemum vulgare, or ox-eye daisy, belongs to the daisy family. This perennial herb grows from Europe to Siberia and Iran. It is native to Britain and Ireland. It also grows across North America, along roads and disturbed ground. It occurs in grassy fields and suits temperate climates. Gardeners grow it in beds, borders, and wildflower meadows.

Plants form upright clumps and spread through underground rhizomes. Garden plants reach about 1–3 feet [0.3–0.9 metres] tall. The RHS gives an upper height of 3.3 feet [1 metre]. Clumps spread about 1–2 feet [0.3–0.6 metres] wide. Dark green leaves form a cluster near the ground. These basal leaves have spoon-shaped or oval blades with toothed edges. Stem leaves are shorter, and some have deep cuts. The leaves lack hairs, and the stems have no scent.

Each flower head has white rays around a yellow disc. The heads measure about 0.08–0.25 feet [0.025–0.076 metres] across. Single heads rise above the leaves on upright stems. Flowers appear from May to August, though local timing varies. The RHS places bloom in late spring and early summer. Butterflies and other pollinators visit the flowers. The blooms also last well as cut flowers. Mass plantings and ground cover are other supported garden uses.

Grow ox-eye daisy in sun with soil that drains well. It also accepts part shade, including afternoon shade in hot climates. The RHS recommends moist soil with a moderate level of fertility. Plants can tolerate dry soil once growing. They accept sand, loam, clay, and chalk, across varied pH levels. Published US hardiness ranges span zones 3–9; the RHS rates it H7. Care needs are low, though stems may need support. Remove spent heads to encourage more flowers. Divide clumps every two or three years to keep growth strong. Its spreading habit can make it invasive.

Aphids, mites, and leaf miners may attack this plant. Leaf spots, stem rots, and verticillium wilt can also occur. Deer and rabbits tend to leave it alone. PFAF lists leaves, young shoots, and roots as edible. Leaves may be eaten raw or cooked; shoots taste pungent. PFAF also records traditional medicinal uses, including cough and skin remedies. These records do not establish safe or effective treatment. Despite PFAF's lack of listed hazards, NC State flags low-severity toxicity. Leaves and flowers can cause a skin rash on contact. NC State also identifies risks for cats, dogs, and horses.