Common Types of Daisies
Daisies are a common and well-loved member of the aster family. Most daisies include yellow, gold or dark-colored centers surrounded by long, thin petals. One of the most common daisies is the Shasta, with its sunny yellow center and white petals on tall, dark green stems with long etched leaves. Learn about several common types of daisies as you determine what to include in your garden or flower arrangements.
Shasta Daisies
Shasta daisies are a common garden perennial in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9. Shasta daisies grow readily and spread rapidly in full sun. They require good drainage and adequate moisture. They usually reach heights of between 1 and 3 feet tall. Combine them with red yarrow for a cheerful country feeling bouquet in mid-summer.
African Daisies
You can often find bright, bold African daisies to grow as annuals in the seed section of plant supply stores or as seedlings in nurseries. African daisies commonly feature a ring of contrasting color around their centers, and brightly colored petals in shades of white, pink, orange, yellow, peach and light green. Some versions grow as high as 12 feet tall; others remain as compact as 1 to 2 feet. African daisies are hardy in some areas. Check your nursery for the USDA hardiness information for varieties available in your area. Full sun and good drainage are necessary for outdoor planting.
Gerbera Daisies
Gerbera daisies are common cut flowers, available in bold solid shades of red, pink, orange and yellow with very dark centers. You can also find them in pots to grow as annuals; they are hardy to USDA zone 8. They grow from 1 to 1 1/2 feet tall in full sun. Combine them in large, bright red pots with trailing plants such as white alyssum and tall centerpiece plants such as several sunflower blooms for a vibrant addition to a patio where you do a lot of entertaining by the grill.
Daisies make a friendly, bright addition to any garden or flower arrangement.
