Appearance

Growth form

A bushy perennial with stems that become woody near the base. Wild plants can grow about 8–31 in (20–80 cm) tall.

Leaves

The green leaves are deeply divided, giving them a fine, feathery look.

Flowers

The species has white daisy-like heads with yellow centers. Garden plants sold as marguerites may have pink or yellow blooms or extra layers of petals; some are hybrids.

Flowering time

In mild parts of California, garden plants may bloom for much of the year. Flowering varies with climate and cultivar.

Look-alikes

Oxeye DaisyLeucanthemum vulgare

Look below the flower: oxeye daisy has spoon-shaped lower leaves, while marguerite has finely cut leaves and woody lower stems.

Why they get mixed up · Both have white rays around yellow centers.

Shasta DaisyLeucanthemum × superbum

Shasta daisy has thick, narrow leaves and much larger flower heads, sometimes up to 4 in (10 cm) across. Marguerite has finely cut leaves and smaller wild-type heads.

Why they get mixed up · Both are sold as white garden daisies.

Where it lives

Typical habitats

• Gardens
• Containers

Range

Native to the Canary Islands. In the United States it is grown in gardens and containers and has been recorded outside cultivation in California.

Preferred conditions

Grows best in full sun with well-drained soil and regular water. Frost can damage it, especially in cold winters.

Name and classification

About the name

It was once called Chrysanthemum frutescens, and it is also called Paris daisy.

Varieties and forms

Garden marguerites include selections of this species as well as hybrids with related plants, so flower color alone does not establish a plant’s species.

Conservation

IUCN Red List

NENot Evaluated·Not yet assessed