Shasta Daisy
Traditionally popular for the 'loves me, loves me not' petal-plucking game
Shasta Daisy is one of the world's most beloved garden flowers, and for good reason. This hybrid originates from crossing several daisy species and is named after Mount Shasta in California, where it was first cultivated in the early twentieth century. Since then, the plant has won the hearts of gardeners with its unpretentious nature and generous blooms.
Visually, Shasta Daisy is a true classic: pure white petals arranged around a golden centre, carried on sturdy, upright stems. Growing to 0.5–1 metre tall, it works beautifully in mixed borders and cuts superbly for arrangements. Over decades of breeding, numerous cultivars have emerged—from simple single forms to frilly double and semi-double varieties, some with creamy or pale yellow-tinged petals. Yet the simple garden form reveals the greatest beauty: clean, bright, like a ray of sunshine in a vase.
In the garden, Shasta Daisy demands but one condition: abundant sunshine. In a sunny spot, it flowers so prolifically that foliage is barely visible beneath clouds of white blooms. The plant performs wonderfully as a cut flower, which is why many gardeners grow it specifically for picking. With regular deadheading of spent flowers, blooming extends from June through August, sometimes even to the first frosts. Its simplicity makes it ideal for beginners, whilst its extended flowering season delights experienced cultivators.
Famous for the childhood tradition of 'loves me, loves me not', if you plant this flower in your garden, it will surely return your affection. A true garden universal—simple in presence, transformative in effect.
Shasta Daisy — planting & location
Extended flowering period with regular deadheading
How to water Shasta Daisy
Divide clumps every 3 years
Fertilizing and pruning: Shasta Daisy
Remove spent flower stems; cut back foliage in autumn