Leucanthemum adustum
Leucanthemum adustum · Asteraceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant leucanthemum adustum: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Common name
- Alpine Daisy or Rustic Daisy
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Type
- Herbaceous perennial
- Flowering
- June to September
- Mature size
- 30 to 50 cm in height
- Foliage
- Deciduous, light green
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to −15 °C)
- Exposure
- Full sun
Care
Exposure
Place this daisy in full sun, with at least 6 hours per day, for generous and colorful blooms. It tolerates partial shade as well, but will produce fewer flowers. Avoid overly shaded areas, which promote weak growth and encourage fungal diseases.
Watering
Water moderately, especially during active growth periods. Once established, this alpine plant proves very resistant to drought. Be careful not to keep the soil constantly wet, as this could cause root rot. In winter, reduce watering.
Soil and drainage
This daisy prefers well-drained soil, preferably chalky or neutral, light and not too rich. A potting mix blended with gravel or sand improves drainage. Avoid heavy clay soils that retain moisture.
Pruning and pinching
Pinch the tip of stems in spring to encourage dense branching and better blooming. After the first flush of flowers, cut back slightly to stimulate a second bloom in autumn. Remove spent flowers to extend the blooming period.
Fertilizer
A moderate application of fertilizer in spring is more than sufficient. Too much nitrogen promotes foliage at the expense of flowers. A balanced fertilizer or one slightly higher in potassium at the start of the season is preferable to repeated applications.
Diseases and pests
This alpine plant is generally hardy against pests. In case of excessive humidity, fungal diseases (powdery mildew, rust) may appear; improve air circulation and reduce foliar watering. Occasional slugs may nibble young leaves; treat preventatively if necessary.
Did you know?
Leucanthemum adustum is native to the high alpine mountains of central and southern Europe, where it grows on rocky meadows with plenty of sun exposure. Its Latin name 'adustum' means 'burnt,' likely referring to its white petals that appear 'burnt' at the edges by the intense sun of high altitudes.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- SunflowerHelianthus annuus
- YarrowAchillea millefolium
- Ox-eye daisyLeucanthemum vulgare
- SneezewortAchillea ptarmica
- Canadian goldenrodSolidago canadensis
- WormwoodArtemisia absinthium
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.