Species
1 other cultivar
The Story
Plant Bio
Leucanthemum x superbum, commonly known as Shasta Daisy, is a popular perennial featuring classic white daisy flowers with yellow centers atop sturdy stems with dark green foliage.
The 'May Queen' cultivar is an early-blooming variety, known for its large, single, pure white flowers and vigorous, clumping habit.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
24 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Short-lived perennial
Native To
Garden hybrid
Toxicity
Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses.
Planting
How to Grow
- Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil.
- Tuck seeds or division material into soil in early spring.
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy.
- Fertilize lightly every 6 weeks during the growing season.
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms.
- Divide clumps every 3 years in early spring or fall.
Pro Tip
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply once a week 🌱
- Deadhead spent flowers for continuous bloom
- Divide every 3 years to maintain vigor
Don't
- Overwater to avoid root rot ❌
- Avoid heavy fertilization late in the season
- Don’t prune in late fall or winter
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
May Queen Shasta Daisy questions
What zones can May Queen Shasta Daisy grow in?
May Queen Shasta Daisy is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is May Queen Shasta Daisy deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse May Queen Shasta Daisy, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does May Queen Shasta Daisy bloom?
May Queen Shasta Daisy typically blooms in late spring to summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does May Queen Shasta Daisy need full sun?
May Queen Shasta Daisy does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is May Queen Shasta Daisy drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), May Queen Shasta Daisy handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Chrysanthemum to compare
Becky Shasta Daisy
Chrysanthemum leucanthemum 'Becky'
Mammoth Chrysanthemum
Chrysanthemum x morifolium 'Mammoth'
Christy Garden Mum
Chrysanthemum x hybrida 'Christy'
Small Wonder Chrysanthemum
Chrysanthemum x morifolium 'Small Wonder'
Mammoth Mum
Chrysanthemum x morifolium 'Mammoth Mum'
Chrysanthemum x morifolium Red
Chrysanthemum x morifolium 'Red'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow May Queen Shasta Daisy with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.