Shasta Daisies: Classic Perennials for Reliable Summer-to-Fall Blooms

The cheerful Shasta daisy is a classic perennial. It resembles the roadside daisy but with larger, more robust blooms.

Shastas bloom in clumps 2–3 ft tall and 1–2 ft wide, bearing all-white petals, yellow disk florets, and glossy dark green leaves. Like clockwork, they return every spring/early summer and bloom until early fall. Never invasive (unlike some roadside daisies) and superb for cutting.

Planting Shasta Daisies

• Full sun.
• Moderately fertile, not overly rich, moist but well-drained soil.
• Sow seeds in containers in cold frame autumn or spring. Divide perennials early spring or late summer.
• Direct-seeded plants bloom the following spring after one season's growth.
• Container plants: plant in spring.
• Loosen soil 12–15 inches; mix in 2–4 inches compost.
• Space 1–2 ft apart. Dig hole twice container diameter.
• Set plant with root ball top level with soil. Backfill, firm, water thoroughly.
• Many taller plants need staking/support.

Care

• Water in summer only if rainfall < 1 inch/week.
• After first killing frost, cut stems to 1–2 inches above soil.
• Each spring: apply compost and mulch for weed control.
• Every 3–4 years, divide in early spring or late summer.

Pests and Diseases

Aphids, slugs, earwigs, chrysanthemum nematode, and leaf spots may occur. Generally low-maintenance.

Recommended Varieties

• 'Cobham Gold' – Popular double flowerheads with yellow disc on 2-ft stems.
• 'Horace Reed' – Elegant double white flowerheads with incurved disk florets.
• 'Snow Lady' – Fast-growing, erect, bushy; blooms first year from seed with single white summer flowerheads.

Wit & Wisdom

Black bees on the clover-heads drowsily clinging,
Where tall feathered grasses and buttercups sway;
And all through the fields a white sprinkle of daisies,
Open-eyed at the setting of day.
–Abba Woolson

Daisies are an April birth flower, symbolizing innocence and hope. Learn more flower meanings.