Shasta Daisy (Leucanthemum × Superbum ‘Crazy Daisy’)

Shasta Daisy

Features and Characteristics

Leucanthemum × superbum, commonly called Shasta daisy, is a hybrid developed by Luther Burbank (1849-192- in the 1890s near snow covered Mt. Shasta in northern California. Burbank crossed L. vulgare (European oxeye daisy), L. maximum (Pyrenees chrysanthemum), L. lacustre (Portuguese field daisy) and Nipponanthemum nipponicum (Japanese field daisy) to produce Leucanthemum × superbum which was given the common name of Shasta daisy. This hybrid typically grows to 2-3′ tall with a spread to 18″ wide.

Leucanthemums were formerly included in the genus Chrysanthemum.

Genus name comes from the Greek leukos meaning white and anthemum meaning flower in reference to the white flowers of some species.

The hybrid name superbum means superb.

‘Crazy Daisy’ is a Shasta daisy cultivar that typically grows 2-5’ tall. It is noted for its large double blooms (5” diameter) with frilly, twisted white rays and yellow center disks. Multiple flowers per stem. Coarsely-toothed, lance-shaped, medium green leaves (basal leaves to 12” long). Blooms most of the summer. Excellent and long-lasting fresh cut flower.

Care and Maintenance

Easily grown in average, dry to medium, well-drained soils in full sun. Good soil drainage is essential. Wet soils in winter can be fatal. Tolerates some light shade, particularly in hot summer climates or when plants are being grown in dryish soils. Remove spent flower heads to promote additional bloom. Divide clumps as needed (every 2-3 years) to maintain vigor. Plants are somewhat short-lived. Consider cutting stems back to basal leaves after flowering to preserve plant energies and perhaps prolong plant life.

‘Crazy Daisy’ is a seed strain.

Shasta Daisy (Leucanthemum × Superbum ‘Crazy Daisy’) Requirements

Hardiness zone	4 - 9
Sun light	Full Sun
Water	Dry To Medium
Maintenance	Low

Common Problems

Leucanthemums generally have some susceptibility to verticillium wilt, leaf spots and stem rots. Aphids, leaf miners and mites are occasional visitors.

Uses

Shasta daisies provide long-lasting summer bloom and are mainstays of the perennial border, cottage garden and cutting garden. Rock gardens. Containers.

Shasta Daisy (Leucanthemum × Superbum ‘Crazy Daisy’) Details

Common name	Shasta Daisy
Botanical name	Leucanthemum × Superbum 'Crazy Daisy'
Plant type	Herbaceous Perennial
Family	Asteraceae
Hardiness zone	4 - 9
Water	Dry To Medium
Maintenance	Low
Flower color	Twisted White Rays With Yellow Center
Flowering period	June - August
Height	2 - 2.50 Feet
Width	1.50 To 2 Ft.