Leucanthemum superbum Shapcott Summer Clouds - Shasta Daisy

Leucanthemum x superbum 'Shapcott Summer Clouds' is a variety of Shasta Daisy introduced in 2014, particularly robust and hardy, as they were once appreciated in cottage gardens. Well-suited to moist, even clayey and heavy soil, requiring no staking, it offers a long summer flowering in the form of slightly ruffled heads, composed of countless thread-like white florets, arranged in a thick crown around a lemon yellow centre. Oxeye daisies are among the queens of summer, with their innocent charm, essential in flower gardens as well as in wildflower bouquets.

The genus Leucanthemum belongs to the aster family. 'Shapcott Summer Clouds' is a recently obtained horticultural hybrid in England, still relatively rare in cultivation. It originates from Leucanthemum x superbum, the well-known Shasta Daisy. It is particularly hardy (beyond -20°C (1°F)), sturdy against the wind and resistant to diseases. It forms a very compact clump, taller than it is wide. It measures about 60cm (24in) in height and spreads over 50cm (20in), with moderately fast growth. Opulent in summer, it disappears completely in winter. Flowering takes place from July to September, in the form of large solitary heads, 5 to 7cm (2 to 3in) in diameter, with numerous gracefully frayed white ligules. The floral stems are particularly sturdy and perfect for cutting. The leaves are dark green, simple and alternate with regularly dentate edges. The plant reaches full maturity in five years.

This summer daisy, suitable for making bouquets, will be perfect in a border or in a meadow beneath fruit trees or at the edges of the garden. Pair its ruffled flowering with that of cosmos, paniculate phlox and delphiniums, mix it with grasses, asters, peonies, blue lupins or bellflowers. The rustic charm of this new variety reminds us of our grandmothers' gardens while adding a touch of coyness, with its flowers resembling charming large pompons. Daisies beautifully complement old roses and lilies in bouquets.