SafePlants

Oxeye Daisy (Leucanthemum vulgare)

The Oxeye Daisy, scientifically known as Leucanthemum vulgare, is a familiar and attractive grassland perennial wildflower.

Common Names

• Ox-eye daisy
• Oxeye daisy
• Moon Daisy
• Dog-daisy
• Marguerite

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Leucanthemum vulgare
• Family: Asteraceae (Daisy Family)
• Synonyms: Mentioned to be part of the Chrysanthemum genus (Chrysanthemum leucanthemum)

Distribution and Habitat

The Oxeye Daisy is native to Europe and temperate regions of Asia, including Siberia and the British Isles. It thrives in grassland environments such as roadside verges, waste grounds, traditional hay meadows, and field edges.

Considerations for Pets

• The Ox-eye Daisy is part of the Chrysanthemum family. Several species of Chrysanthemum contain Pyrethrins.

Morphological Characteristics

• It's the largest native member of the daisy family in its region.
• It features a medium-tall, unbranched stem.
• It is topped with a large white flower with a yellow centre (disk and ray florets).
• Silvery-white blooms with golden-yellow 'eyes'

Ecological Role

• The Oxeye Daisy is a classic wildflower essential for wild flower meadows and natural planting schemes, attracting pollinators.
• It can self-seed easily and may become dominant in the first years of growth.

Quirky Facts

• John Clare referenced the plant in his poem "The Fear of Flowers" with the line: "The nodding oxeye bends before the wind."
• The Oxeye Daisy flowers around the summer solstice.
• It has been used in some gluten-free tabbouleh recipes.

Further Information

• The RHS (Royal Horticultural Society) provides help and information on Leucanthemum vulgare.
• Nature's Calendar offers a free oxeye daisy fact sheet.