7 named cultivars

perennial

Ox-eye Daisy

The Story

Plant Bio

Leucanthemum vulgare, the ox-eye daisy, is a familiar wildflower perennial with classic white-rayed, yellow-centered daisies on tall stems. It is commonly found in meadows and disturbed areas.

While resilient and adaptable, it spreads aggressively by rhizomes and self-seeding, and is considered a noxious weed or invasive species in many parts of North America.

Uses & Benefits:

Leucanthemum vulgare provides cheerful, daisy-like blooms that brighten garden borders and attract pollinators.

Its resilient nature makes it a low-maintenance choice for sunny gardens.

Supports bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects, enhancing garden biodiversity.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

30"

Width

24"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Europe, Asia

Toxicity

Mildly toxic if ingested; can cause skin irritation

Planting

How to Grow

Select a sunny location with well-draining soil.
Tuck seeds just below soil surface and water gently.
Maintain consistent moisture during germination, about 2 weeks.
Transplant seedlings when they are sturdy, around 6 weeks old.
Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer for healthy growth.
Deadhead spent flowers to promote continuous blooming.

Pro Tip

Ensure good air circulation to prevent powdery mildew and encourage healthy blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly, especially during dry spells 🌱
Deadhead flowers to prolong blooming period
Mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds
Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer
Provide full sun for optimal growth

Don't

Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
Don't neglect deadheading, as it reduces flowering
Refrain from planting in poorly drained areas
Avoid excessive fertilization that can lead to leggy growth
Don't forget to prune back after flowering

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Divide

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Bright perennial borderWildflower meadow accentSunny rock garden feature

Companion Plants

Echinacea Gaillardia Coreopsis Lavandula Rudbeckia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Ox-eye Daisy questions

What zones can Ox-eye Daisy grow in?

Ox-eye Daisy is hardy in USDA Zones 4–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Ox-eye Daisy deer resistant?

Yes — Ox-eye Daisy is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Ox-eye Daisy bloom?

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

Does Ox-eye Daisy need full sun?

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

Is Ox-eye Daisy drought tolerant?

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