Characteristics of Daisy Flowers

Basic Physical Characteristics

• All daisies have white florets around a central disk. Their stalks average 3 to 4 inches in length with evergreen leaves. The leaves have slightly rounded tips and narrow bases. Their roots are fibrous, thin and moderately branching.

Flowering Qualities

• Daisies are perennials. Characteristically, all daisies bloom throughout the spring and summer, having been pollinated by bees, beetles and flies. The flowers pop up in many fields and lawns without human sowing. If a daisy doesn't get enough light, the plant may not flower, or the flower turns pale and stems grow slowly.

Growing Traits and Requirements

• All daisies can grow from seed or by division of larger plants. They prefer full sun or partial shade locations and medium-bodied, well-draining soil with a pH no higher than 6.2. For best results in the garden, put daisy plants in the ground so that the root's crown is slightly above the soil line. Because of shallow root systems, daisies require regular watering, particularly when flowering. Daisies benefit from a 10-10-10 fertilizer mix.

Mutual Problems

• While daisies are normally very hardy flowers, as a genus they're not immune to certain problems. Plants with overly long stems or huge leaves indicate too much ammonium in the soil or insufficient light. Short stems reflect cold or very dry growing seasons. Mites distort daisy flowers and poor drainage kills the plants, as does root rot.

Common Uses

• Daisy flowers have laxative, digestive and expectorant properties. Healers throughout history also applied them in tinctures or infusions for treating minor wounds and bruises. The flowers are edible, having a tangy, slightly bitter taste. Sprinkle daisy petals into salads, toss them in stir-fry or freeze whole flowers in ice for decorative drinks.