Shasta Daisy - A Timeless Perennial Garden Addition
‘Polaris’ Shasta Daisy is a dependable perennial known for its large, snow-white blooms that shine across summer borders. This cultivar of Leucanthemum × superbum forms dense, upright clumps with glossy green foliage that serves as a crisp backdrop to its striking flowers. Loved for its long bloom time and ability to attract pollinators, the Shasta Daisy ‘Polaris’ provides classic cottage garden appeal with minimal upkeep. Its drought tolerance and reliability make it a sustainable choice for gardeners seeking structure and brightness in sunny beds or borders.
Applications in the Garden
Excellent for sunny perennial borders and mixed beds
Adds contrast against colorful perennials like coneflowers, salvia, or rudbeckia
Suitable for cutting gardens due to long-lasting blooms
Performs well in pollinator-friendly plantings, supporting bees and butterflies
Works nicely as a mass planting for visual impact or as a tidy edging plant
Low-maintenance addition to naturalized or meadow-style garden designs
Planting Tips - Shasta Daisy
Choose a location with full sun to ensure strong bloom production
Plant in well-drained soil, ideally amended with compost to promote healthy root growth
Space plants 18–24 inches apart to allow airflow and prevent crowding
Water deeply after planting and maintain consistent moisture during establishment
Avoid overly rich soil or excessive fertilization, which can lead to floppy stems
Apply a light layer of mulch to retain soil moisture and moderate temperature
Plant Biography and Growing Environment
Botanical Name: | Leucanthemum Superbum |
Variety Name: | Polaris |
Height: | 30″ |
Hardiness Zone: | 4-9 |
Sun or Shade: | Full sun to partial shade |
Plant Classification: | Perennial |
Planting Season: | Spring |
Bloom Season: | Summer |
Bloom Cycle: | Only blooms once |
Bloom Duration: | 4-6 weeks |
Planting Depth: | 2″-3″ |
Soil Requirements: | Fertile, moist, well-draining soils |
Water Requirements: | Average |
Troubleshooting Shasta Daisy
Floppy stems: Often caused by excess fertilizer or too much shade; relocate or reduce feeding
Poor blooming: Check sunlight exposure—plants need at least 6 hours of direct sun daily
Crown rot or root rot: Typically from poor drainage; replant in a well-drained bed and avoid overwatering
Powdery mildew: Improve airflow between plants and remove affected foliage if spotted
Yellowing leaves near base: Normal as older foliage ages, but consistent yellowing may signal soggy soil
Spent blooms lingering: Deadhead regularly to extend bloom period and encourage tidy growth
FAQ - Shasta Daisy
Q: Are Shasta Daisy perennials or annuals?
A: Shasta Daisies are hardy perennials that return each year, typically thriving in USDA Zones 4–9.
Q: How long does Shasta Daisy ‘Polaris’ bloom?
A: ‘Polaris’ blooms from early to mid-summer, with flowers lasting several weeks. Deadheading can promote additional blooms.
Q: Are Shasta Daisies deer resistant?
A: Yes, Shasta Daisies are generally deer resistant, though young growth may occasionally be nibbled.
Q: Are Shasta Daisies toxic to pets or humans?
A: Shasta Daisies can cause a mild upset stomach if ingested by pets or humans, so it’s best to plant them where curious animals won’t chew the foliage.
Q: Can Shasta Daisies be divided?
A: Yes, divide every 2–3 years in early spring or late summer to rejuvenate growth and maintain vigorous flowering.