Consulta Plantas

Care of the shrub Argyranthemum frutescens or Marguerite daisy

The genus Argyranthemum, family Asteraceae, comprises 24 species of native flowering plants from the Canary Islands and Madeira; they were previously included in the genus Chrysanthemum. Some species are: Argyranthemum frutescens, Argyranthemum maderense, Argyranthemum tenerifae, Argyranthemum gracile, Argyranthemum adauctum.

Common names: Marguerite daisy, Paris daisy. This species is native to Canary Islands.

They are compact evergreen shrubs that reach 1.5 meters (4.92 feet) in height. The leaves have deep lobes and are green on the upper side and gray on the underside. The showy and abundant daisy-shaped flowers can have a variety of colors. They bloom almost throughout the year in Mediterranean and subtropical climates.

They are used as isolated specimens, in shrub groups, to cover slopes and in pots for patios, balconies and terraces. They are ideal for Mediterranean coastal gardens.

Argyranthemum frutescens prefers full sun exposure but can grow in half shade. They resist occasional frosts of up to -4 ºC (28.8 ºF) but it is better not to expose them to less than 5 ºC (41 ºF).

The soil has to drain well and contain abundant organic matter. Planting or potting is done in mid-spring.

Regulating watering so that the soil is always a little damp but never watery.

Fertilize with manure or compost in late winter and with mineral fertilizer every 3 weeks in spring and summer.

Prune the withered flowers to favor the appearance of new flowers.

They are plants resistant to pests and diseases but are sensitive to drought and persistent frosts.

They propagate from seeds sown in spring or by cuttings in late summer or early spring.

Images of the shrub Argyranthemum frutescens or Marguerite daisy