Sea Daisy (Pallenis maritima)

Sea Daisy

Pallenis maritima

Dainty daisy-like blooms brighten coastal dunes, a tough seaside beauty. Low-growing evergreen perennial; common name: Sea Daisy.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
🌱

Plant Needs

☀️
Sunlight Full sun exposure required; tolerant of coastal salt spray and strong winds, cannot thrive in heavy shade
💧
Watering Water deeply but infrequently; drought-tolerant once established, avoid waterlogged soil to prevent root rot
🌡️
Temperature Hardy to mild frosts down to 5°C; thrives in cool to temperate coastal conditions, avoid extreme heat above 32°C
🔍

Characteristics

  • Leaf: Small, silvery-green, linear to spatulate leaves covered in fine hairs for salt tolerance.
  • Flower: Daisy-like composite blooms with bright yellow ray florets and yellow central discs.
  • Stem: Prostrate, trailing stems that form dense, spreading mats.
🛠️

Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil slightly moist during active growth; avoid overwatering

Fertilization

Light, diluted feed once per month. Use low-nitrogen, phosphorus-rich feed to support abundant flowering

Crushed eggshell powder:Sprinkle a thin layer on soil surface; gently work into topsoil to avoid disturbing shallow root systems
Pruning
  • Trim back spent flower heads to encourage prolonged blooming and prevent self-seeding
  • Thin overcrowded mats in early spring to improve airflow and maintain tidy growth
  • Remove any damaged or brown foliage to keep plants healthy and visually appealing
⚠️

Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA does not list this plant as toxic to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects on humans

📖

Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental groundcover for coastal gardens, rockeries; erosion control on sandy dunes