Shasta Daisy
Leucanthemum × superbum
Bred by Luther Burbank in 1901 by crossing four daisy species over 17 years — the result is one of the most reliable cottage-garden perennials and a testament to patience-driven plant breeding.
How to care for shasta daisy
Deadhead aggressively for continuous bloom — letting them go to seed kills the second flush. Divide every 2-3 years (clumps die out in the centre otherwise). Cut to ground in fall to disrupt pest cycles.
Garden uses & design ideas
Best garden use
Place it in repeatable drifts through borders so the color and texture carry the eye instead of appearing as a one-off plant.
Pair it with
Echinacea, Black-eyed Susan, Russian sage make easy companion choices because they share similar light, water, or visual texture needs.
Layout tip
Match it with full sun exposure, place it in a moderate-water bed where soil can stay evenly damp but not soggy, and check USDA zones 4-9 before planting. Use the garden planner to test spacing around its mature size: 1-3 ft tall, 12-24 in wide.
Gardener note — Double-check local invasive, edible, and toxicity guidance with your county extension office before planting around pets, children, or natural areas.
Companion plants
Shasta Daisy grows well alongside these — similar light, water, and texture needs.
Common pests & problems
Where it grows best
Native to garden hybrid (created by Luther Burbank, 1901); thrives in USDA hardiness zones 4-9.
Frequently asked about shasta daisy
What USDA zones does Shasta Daisy grow in?+
Shasta Daisy is hardy in USDA zones 4-9. Outside these zones, it can usually be grown indoors or as a seasonal annual.
How much sun does Shasta Daisy need?+
Shasta Daisy prefers full sun. Place it where it gets that light most of the day for best growth and flowering.
How often should I water Shasta Daisy?+
Shasta Daisy has moderate water needs. Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy. Deadhead aggressively for continuous bloom — letting them go to seed kills the second flush. Divide every 2-3 years (clumps die out in the centre otherwise). Cut to ground in fall to disrupt pest cycles.
How big does Shasta Daisy get?+
Shasta Daisy reaches a mature size of 1-3 ft tall, 12-24 in wide. Growth rate is fast, so plan spacing accordingly when planting.
What plants grow well with Shasta Daisy?+
Shasta Daisy pairs well with Echinacea, Black-eyed Susan, Russian sage, Yarrow, Salvia. These companions share similar care requirements and don't compete aggressively for resources.
What pests affect Shasta Daisy?+
Common Shasta Daisy problems include aphids; leaf spot in humid summers. Catching early signs in routine inspection prevents most damage.
When does Shasta Daisy bloom?+
Shasta Daisy blooms in early to late summer in white with yellow centre. Deadheading spent flowers (where applicable) often encourages a longer bloom window.
More plants to design with
Pair well with shasta daisy or suit the same spot.
Perennial
Perennial
Perennial
Perennial
Perennial
Perennial