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Ox-eye daisy flowers. Jason Ingram

Ox-eye daisy

BBC Gardeners' World Magazine

Published: Wednesday, 13 November 2024 at 10:46 am

All you need to know about growing and caring for ox-eye daisies.

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Plant Size:

Height: 70

Spread: 30

Ox-eye Daisy (Leucanthemum vulgare) is a beautiful grassland perennial that works well in garden meadows, wildlife corners and even ornamental borders. Britain's largest member of the daisy family, its stems grow to up to 70cm in height and bear one, large daisy flower, comprising a yellow composite disc surrounded by white petals. Also known as moon daisy and moon penny, owing to its habit of 'glowing' at night, ox-eye daisy attracts a variety of different pollinators, including the patchwork leafcutter bee, which uses its petals to line its nest.

Ox eye daisy leaves are attractive in their own right, comprising a rough mound of spoon-shaped, fresh green leaves with scalloped margins.

How to grow ox eye daisy

Grow ox-eye daisy in moist but well drained, averagely fertile soil in full sun to partial shade. Cut back in July or August.

Where to grow ox-eye daisy

Ox-eye daisies growing with red campion in a meadow. Jason Ingram

Grow ox-eye daisy in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. Garden meadows, wild areas and the centre of borders are all suitable garden habitats.

How to care for ox-eye daisy

Ox-eye daisies growing in a mixed ornamental border. Paul Debois

Ox-eye daisy needs very little care. Keep well watered after planting until it becomes established. You may need to stake taller stems.

When to cut back ox-eye daisy

Cut back after flowering in late summer. Alternatively, leave in situ to self seed and provide seed for birds.

Pests and diseases

Ox-eye daisy isn't susceptible to pests or diseases.

Advice on buying ox-eye daisy

You can buy ox-eye daisy as seed, plug plant or as a young plant
If buying plants, always check for signs of damage or disease before purchasing
Ox-eye daisies do best in moist but well-drained soil, in full sun to partial shade. Ensure you have these conditions before buying

Where to buy ox-eye daisy online

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