The English Daisy and Other Daisy Flowers for Your Garden

When most people picture a daisy, they imagine white petals around a yellow center. But many different plants share that look, and they vary widely in size, color and care needs. This guide introduces the English daisy and several other popular garden daisies so you can choose the right one for your space.

English daisy (Bellis perennis)

The English daisy is the small, low-growing daisy often seen in European lawns. It has white, pink or red petals and a yellow center, and garden varieties may have double, pompom-like flowers.

• Size: Low and compact, good for edging and containers.
• Season: Typically blooms in cool weather, especially spring.
• Notes: Often grown as a biennial or short-lived perennial. In some lawns it is considered a weed.

Shasta daisy (Leucanthemum × superbum)

The Shasta daisy is the classic tall white daisy with a golden center.

• Size: Medium to tall, depending on variety.
• Season: Summer bloomer.
• Notes: A reliable perennial in many temperate gardens and an excellent cut flower.

Gerbera daisy

Gerberas have large, bold flowers in bright red, orange, pink and yellow.

• Size: Medium.
• Notes: Tender to frost, so often grown as annuals or container plants in cooler climates. Popular in bouquets.

Painted daisy

Painted daisies have bright, often two-toned petals and feathery foliage. They are close relatives of chrysanthemums.

African daisy (Osteospermum)

African daisies offer purple, white, pink and orange flowers, some with striking blue-centered eyes. They like sun and are popular in containers.

Oxeye daisy

The oxeye daisy looks like a smaller Shasta. It spreads readily and is considered invasive in some regions, so check local guidance before planting it.

Choosing the right daisy

• Edging and small spaces: English daisy.
• Cutting garden: Shasta and painted daisies.
• Bold container color: Gerbera and African daisies.
• Wildflower look: Consider native alternatives if oxeye is restricted locally.

For a wider comparison, see our guide to daisy varieties.

General care tips

Most garden daisies share similar needs:

• Full sun for best flowering
• Well-drained soil
• Regular watering until established
• Deadheading to keep flowers coming
• Dividing clumps of perennial types every few years

Read more in how to care for daisy plants and the best time of year to plant daisies.

Quick FAQ

Which daisy is easiest for beginners?

Shasta daisies are a good first choice in many temperate gardens because they are hardy, reliable and easy to divide.

Can I grow several types together?

Yes. Mixing low English daisies at the front of a bed with taller Shasta daisies behind gives a layered look and a longer flowering season.

Conclusion

The English daisy is a charming, low-growing classic, but it is just one member of a big and varied group. Whether you want tidy edging, tall cut flowers or bold pots of color, there is a daisy to suit your garden. Start with the conditions you have, then pick the daisy that will thrive there.