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Synonym(s): Chrysanthemum
x superbum Chrysanthemum
maximum of gardens
Growing
to a height and spread of 2–3 ft (60–90 cm), this robust perennial has large,
daisy-like white flowerheads with pale golden centers; these may be 3 in (8 cm)
across and are carried high above the dark, shiny, toothed leaves in summer and
early fall (autumn). The Shasta daisies were once thought to be Leucanthemum
maximum, a native of the Pyrenees but are now believed to be hybrids between
that species and the Portuguese L. lacustre; they were first noticed
naturalized on the slopes of Mount Shasta in Washington State, USA and
attracted the attention of the famous plant breeder Luther Burbank. There are
now many cultivars, always white-flowered, but including doubles as well as
singles, some with fringed petals. ‘Aglaia’ grows to 12 in (30 cm) tall and is
noted for its semi-double flowers that last throughout summer; ‘Esther Read’
grows to 3 ft (1 m) tall with a profusion of semi-double flowers; ‘Wirral
Pride’ reaches 30 in (75 cm) in height with double white flowerheads; and
‘Wirral Supreme’ is noted for its anemone-centered double flowers. ‘Tinkerbell’
and ‘Snow Lady’ are low-growing forms with single flowers.
Hardiness
zone from 5 To 10 Plant
Spread From approx. 60 To 120 cm Plant
Height From approx. 30 To 120 cm Flowering
colors: White, Yellow Flowering
season: Summer, Autumn Garden
type: Bedding Plant, Small Garden Position:
Sunny, Semi-Shaded Soil:
Sandy Loam, Medium Loam,
Leucanthemum
Cultivation:
These plants are largely undemanding, growing well in a perennial border or
garden bed in full sun or morning shade in moderately fertile, moist but
well-drained soil. Propagate from seed or cuttings, or by division.
Botanica
Plus (c)
Beaver Multimedia - www.gardeninfo.com (c)
Random House
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