Leucanthemum superbum Freak - Shasta Daisy

Leucanthemum x superbum 'Freak' is a recent variety of large daisy that will charm with its large white flowers with numerous ruffled petals around a big yellow centre.  It has a compact and bushy habit, well suited to small spaces and ornamentation of patios. This hardy and sturdy perennial, which does not require staking, forms a beautiful display of stems and dark, toothed leaves, flowering from July to September if you regularly remove faded flowers. A very easy plant to grow, loved by butterflies, it is delightful in flower beds and long-lasting in bouquets.

The genus Leucanthemum belongs to the Asteraceae family. 'Freak' is a horticultural hybrid obtained in England from Leucanthemum x superbum, the well-known large daisy. It is a deciduous perennial, with above-ground vegetation drying out in winter, except for the basal leaves arranged in rosettes that persist in winter. This 'Freak' variety forms a bushy clump, wider than it is tall, measuring about 30 cm (12in) in height and 40-45 cm (16-18in) in width. From spring onwards, it forms an opulent clump made up of numerous leafy stems. The flowering takes place from July to September. It takes the form of flowers organized in solitary heads measuring 7 cm (3in) in diameter.  These are composed of many frayed and twisted white ligules arranged in a crown around a golden yellow centre. The leaves are long, dark green, simple and alternate. They are lanceolate with a regularly toothed edge, which is almost fleshy. Their surface is glabrous. The plant reaches full maturity in five years and can live for many years.

This summer daisy, which is very suitable for making bouquets, will be perfect in a country-style border or in a natural garden, in a meadow under fruit trees or at the back of the garden. In daisies, one does not find extravagant colours, but it is the structure of the flowers that stands out. Accompany these flowers with that of cosmos, combine them with peonies, columbines, asters, blue lupins, campanulas or snapdragons, for example. Be creative with this flower, in the garden or in a vase in the house, to produce a delightful and unique display.