1 named cultivar

‘Break O'Day’Cut-Leaf Daisy

perennial

Cut-Leaved Daisy

The Story

Plant Bio

Brachyscome multifida, the cut-leaved daisy, is a low-growing, spreading evergreen perennial that forms a dense, mounded mat of finely divided, bright green foliage. The small, daisy-like flowers feature mauve, pink, or violet-blue ray florets surrounding a contrasting golden-yellow central disc, blooming continuously from late spring through autumn.

This species is highly valued as a fast-growing groundcover or trailing container plant that tolerates coastal winds and moderate drought once established. Its prostrate stems frequently root where they touch the soil, helping to suppress weeds and stabilize small slopes.

Uses & Benefits:

Forms a dense, fine-textured mat covered in purple-mauve daisy flowers, ideal for rockeries, borders, and hanging baskets.

Functions as an effective, fast-growing groundcover that suppresses weeds and tolerates moderate coastal salt winds.

Attracts generalist bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insect pollinators with its long-lasting nectar source.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

18"

Width

40"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

3-5 years

Native To

Australia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Planting

How to Grow

Select a planting site in full sun to partial shade with exceptionally well-drained sandy loam or light clay loam.
Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and set the plant at the same depth as it was in its container.
Water thoroughly at the base to settle the soil, ensuring the crown remains free of standing water.
Apply a light layer of organic mulch around the base, keeping it clear of the immediate stems to prevent rot.

Pro Tip

Prune the foliage back by one-third with sharp shears after a heavy flowering flush to stimulate fresh growth and maintain a tight, cushion-like habit; cutting deeply into old, leafless woody stems will kill those branches.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the top few inches of soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Shear the plant lightly after major flowering flushes to encourage a dense, mounded shape.
Provide excellent air circulation around the foliage to minimize the risk of powdery mildew.

Don't

Do not overwater or plant in heavy, poorly drained clay soils that hold water around the roots.
Do not prune hard into old, bare, woody stems, as the plant cannot regenerate from old wood.
Do not use overhead irrigation late in the evening, which leaves foliage wet overnight and invites fungal issues.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Pest Check
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

GroundcoverRock GardensBorder EdgingHanging BasketsContainer Displays

Companion Plants

Lantana Calibrachoa Salvia Festuca glauca Scaevola

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Cut-Leaved Daisy questions

What zones can Cut-Leaved Daisy grow in?

Cut-Leaved Daisy is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

When does Cut-Leaved Daisy bloom?

Cut-Leaved Daisy typically blooms in late spring through autumn. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Cut-Leaved Daisy need full sun?

Cut-Leaved Daisy does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Cut-Leaved Daisy drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Cut-Leaved Daisy handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.