Leucanthemum superbum Polaris - Shasta Daisy

Leucanthemum 'Polaris' is a variety of summer daisy that reaches 1 m (3ft) in height. Its sturdy stems bear very wide flower heads measuring 10 to 12 cm (4 to 5in) in diameter.  The white ligules surround the golden yellow tubular flowers. This beautiful perennial blooms all summer in moist soil. It is also a variety that is more resistant to diseases, easy to grow in sun or partial shade. Its flowers last a long time in bouquets and in borders. 

The genus Leucanthemum, sometimes called Chrysanthemum, belongs to the Asteraceae family. Native to Europe and temperate Asia, the daisy is a well-known herbaceous perennial. Very common in its natural state, this plant grows in clumps about 75 cm (30in) tall and 60 cm (24in) wide. It has cheerful flowers in flower heads with white petals surrounding a yellow centre composed of small sessile flowers. Its leaves are green, ovate with unevenly lobed lamina.

'Polaris' is a recently obtained horticultural hybrid from Leucanthemum x superbum, the well-known large daisy. It forms a robust clump in spring that is taller than it is wide, measuring about 100 cm (39in) in height and spreading 75 cm (30in) wide, with a moderately fast growth. Luxuriant in summer, it almost disappears completely in winter, with only a few basal leaf rosettes remaining at ground level. The flowering takes place from June to August if faded flowers are regularly removed. It takes the form of large solitary flower heads measuring 10 to 12 cm (4 to 5in) in diameter, with fine white ligules, assembled in a well-filled crown around the central disc which is golden yellow in colour. The flower stems are particularly sturdy and perfect for cutting. The leaves are dark green, simple and alternate with a regularly toothed margin. The plant reaches full maturity in five years.

It is perfectly hardy, at least down to -15°C (5°F). It is a very easy plant to grow, undemanding and can tolerate dry to moist soil and exposure to sun or partial shade. Maintenance is minimal and consists of removing faded flowers and cutting back the clump in autumn.

This summer daisy, which is very suitable for creating bouquets, will be perfect in borders or in a wildflower meadow, for example under fruit trees or at the back of the garden. You can plant it with Achillea millefolium, Lunaria rediviva, Deschampsia cespitosa and Pennisetums to create a modern and natural border. You can also combine it with cosmos, peonies, lupins, grasses, and perennial geraniums like Orion or with large bellflowers. Easily create a beautiful scene by sowing annual centaureas and poppies near this lovely variety with very large flowers.