Daisy

Daisy is a common name for several flowering plants in the family Asteraceae, especially species with composite flower heads made of ray florets around a central disk.

Daisy is a common name for several flowering plants in the family Asteraceae, especially species with composite flower heads made of ray florets around a central disk. The name most often refers to the common daisy (Bellis perennis), the oxeye daisy (Leucanthemum vulgare), or the Shasta daisy (Leucanthemum × superbum). Daisies are familiar ornamental and wild plants in Canadian gardens, meadows, and roadside habitats, especially cultivated Shasta daisies and naturalized species such as oxeye daisy.

Botanical meaning

Daisy is an umbrella common name used for several related flowering plants in Asteraceae. In botanical writing, it most often points to species with a characteristic composite flower head.

Common species

The best-known daisies include Bellis perennis, Leucanthemum vulgare, and Leucanthemum × superbum. Different regions may use the name daisy for different species.

Flower structure

What looks like one flower is actually a cluster of many tiny flowers. The central disk is made of disk florets, while the outer petal-like parts are ray florets. Common colours include white with yellow centres, though other colours occur.

Distribution and growth

Daisy-like plants occur in many parts of the world and may be annuals, biennials, or perennials. Their habitats and native ranges depend on the specific species. Daisies are familiar ornamental and wild plants in Canadian gardens, meadows, and roadside habitats, especially cultivated Shasta daisies and naturalized species such as oxeye daisy.