Flower spotlight: daisies

Daisies are special because they have the ability to make one think of warm summer sunshine even on the coldest days. Even though daisies come in a variety of colors and shapes, the “white chrysanthemum daisy” is generally the most visible.

But there are many types of daisies! From the chrysanthemum daisy to the Gerbera daisy to the the daisy pom and so on, they can be found in colors ranging from whites, yellows, reds, pinks, purples, oranges and even browns.  Almost every color of the rainbow is represented. 

There are even different varieties in outdoor daisies for landscape.The common daisy, which is scientifically classified as the Bellis Perennis, originated in Europe and was later naturalized in the United States and other equally temperate regions. The traditional white daisy is now generally referred to as Common, Lawn, or English Daisy, although more historic (and comical) names for it include Bruisewort and Woundwort. They are memorable because of the way they grow in big wild patches in fields with pure white petals and golden centers. They are the highlight of many picturesque summer landscapes.  Because they are perennials, meaning they’ll continue to return each year and propagate quickly if left alone, outdoor daisies have a tendency to grow wild in temperate climates.

Both cut and outdoor varieties of daises are hardy flowers with long lasting blooms. Which is one of the reasons they make such excellent complimentary flowers in cut arrangements. Their spoon-shaped petals are not too overpowering and add a fresh, bright touch to any arrangement.

Blooming from early to midsummer, daisies have one of the longest flowering seasons and, in the right climates,  bloom during mild winters, which make them available year round for florists.  Outdoor Daisies can be an invasive plant because of their speedy reproduction and tendency to spread quickly, which is how they earned the nickname “lawn daisy.” In Northern America, some regions treat them like weeds, but they are a staple in many traditional English gardens.

Daisies symbolize innocence and purity, as well as true love. They are composite flowers, meaning that they’re actually two flowers growing together – the inner section (or disc floret) and the outer section (or ray floret). The harmony of two flowers is why they symbolize true love. They’re also the birth flower for the month of April.

The next time you place a floral order with Lilygrass, be sure to consider adding some pretty daisies. They are sure to brighten up your bouquet AND your day!