Common Daisy (Bellis perennis)

Common Daisy

Bellis perennis

Cheerful button blooms dot lawns like scattered sunshine. Low-growing perennial flowering plant; common names: lawn daisy, English daisy.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Thrives in full sun to partial shade; tolerates short periods of full shade in cool climates
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Watering Water when the top 1–2 cm of soil dries completely; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
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Temperature Hardy to -15°C; prefers mild summer temperatures below 25°C to avoid heat stress
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Basal rosette of spoon-shaped, softly hairy leaves with rounded tips
  • Flower: Composite heads 2–3 cm wide, with white ray florets surrounding bright yellow disc florets
  • Stem: Slender, leafless flowering stems rising vertically from basal rosettes
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist during active growth and flowering

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid feed once every 4 weeks. Use low-nitrogen feed to promote flower production over leaf growth

Eggshell powder top-dress:Crush clean, dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface to boost calcium levels without burning shallow roots
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage continuous flowering throughout the growing season
  • Trim back yellowing basal leaves to maintain tidy rosettes and improve air circulation
  • Cut back entire plant to 2–3 cm after first flush of blooms to promote autumn re-growth
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA-verified non-toxic to cats

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; edible flowers are safe for culinary use in small amounts

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Symbolizes innocence, loyal love, and new beginnings in Western folklore

Usage: Ornamental ground cover; edible flowers for salads, garnishes, and herbal teas