Arctanthemum arcticum - Arctic Daisy

Arctanthemum arcticum, sometimes called the Arctic daisy, is an interesting perennial plant known for its spreading habit, late and generous flowering resembling daisies, and its very robust temperament. It forms a beautiful spreading clump of dark green, glossy foliage, which looks lovely in rock gardens, gravel gardens, as ground cover, or even in flower pots. This daisy is not very demanding and can tolerate well-drained, even rocky, limestone, and fairly dry soil. It also tolerates sea spray.

Arctanthemum arcticum is a perennial plant belonging to the aster family. Native to Alaska and Kamchatka, this species is extremely cold-resistant. In the wild, it is often found in moist brackish habitats, as well as along roadsides. The plant grows from a slightly suckering crown. Over time, it forms a wide cushion about 30-35 cm tall and 50 cm wide. The foliage is deciduous in cold regions and semi-evergreen if winters are mild. It consists of lobed basal rosettes of leaves, resembling those of chrysanthemums, slightly glossy and dark green. Flowering occurs from August to October depending on the climate, usually starting in September. Numerous flexible, hairy flower stalks emerge from the foliage. Each stalk bears a flower head about 4 cm in diameter composed of many white petals or ligules surrounding a central yellow disk.

Perfect for rock gardens, Arctanthemum arcticum is one of those plants that can withstand almost anything, from cold to drought. Pair it with other rock garden plants or plant it at the front of your borders, but always in well-drained soil. It pairs well with Ajania pacifica 'Gold and Silver', Arabis procurrens 'Neuschnee', or even Aster alpinus 'Goliath', for example. Also consider planting it alongside aubrietas. Its attractive habit also looks great in a fairly large pot on the terrace.