Kalimeris incisa Alba

Kalimeris incisa 'Alba' is the white-flowered form of a perennial closely related to the aster. It is easy to grow and quite charming. Its countless small flowers, resembling daisies, bloom from early summer until September, above light green foliage that is highly "incised". The natural charm of this flowering is enhanced by a constant flight of multicoloured butterflies. This kalimeris is very tolerant and can grow in most soils as long as they are not too poor, heavy, or dry in summer. Plant it along the edge of a sunny flower bed for a natural and spontaneous atmosphere.

Kalimeris incisa is an herbaceous plant from the Asteraceae family. It is native to northeastern Asia, from Siberia to China, Korea, and Japan. In the wild, it can be found in meadows in lowlands. The flowers of this species are usually a light blue-mauve with a yellow centre. The 'Alba' variety only differs in the white colour of its flowers. It is a perennial with a bushy and upright habit, reaching about 50 to 55cm (20 to 22in) in height and spreading as wide. Its erect stems bear oblong, dentate, and tender green leaves. Small but numerous, they cover the clump to form a verdant backdrop that welcomes an abundance of flowers from June onwards. These flowers are similar to those of asters, with small daisy-like florets measuring 2 to 3cm (1in) in diameter. They have a prominent yellow centre and a row of delicate and long white florets. They bloom from early summer until September, provided that faded flowers are regularly removed and the plant is not lacking water. The above-ground vegetation is deciduous, emerging from the ground in spring and drying up in late autumn.

Kalimeris incisa 'Alba' is a robust and hardy perennial (it easily withstands temperatures below -15°C (5°F)) that requires little monitoring. It enjoys full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It can be placed along the edge of flower beds in a ribbon-like fashion, thus highlighting the silhouette of tall summer perennials such as lavateras and dame's rocket. For a wild effect, combine it with yarrows, sneezeweeds, and field scabious at the base of Rose 'Ballerina' or Buddleia 'Lochinch'.