Marguerite Daisies

Marguerite Daisies

By Rachel Vogan

I think there is a place in most gardens for a Marguerite Daisy. Take a walk through any neighbourhood and if you have a look into gardens along the way you will notice these invaluable plants gracing the garden. Many of us have tried to tame the tall, leggy older varieties and have been disappointed when they do not flower as well when we trim them back to short stems. Lets face it if you have the space and the type of style that will cope with these varieties then please keep on growing them but if you are looking for easy care plants that can be contained to a manageable size then the Elfins and Federations are for you.

Over recent years you would have noticed that a number of new varieties have become available. They main new releases have been other Federation or Elfin daisies. The main difference between the two brands is size. The Elfins are a smaller growing plant and very compact where as the federations tend to be a taller plant. I have found a combination of the two types very useful in my garden. Here Follows my picks for the top performers in the Elfin and Federation range.

Elfin Juliana - Is a lovely, vibrant deep red flower with a white eye, I have this in my front garden and it’s a showpiece for months on end. This is my personal favourite. It has grown right through the winter and I notice now that the buds are plumping up for the first flowering. Height 40 – 50 CMS.

Elfin Primrose Petite - This is a firm favourite with many of my friends; the clear lemon flowers appear in mass from mid spring until late autumn. The foliage is an attractive blue grey and the flower contrast beautifully. This plant is lovely grown in a tub or container. Height 40 CMS

Elfin Annabel - Deep dark green leaves set off the pure white flowers nicely. An abundance of flowers are produced for a very long period. This variety is slightly taller that the other Elfins and it tolerates dry periods well.

Federation “Summer Stars” - A recent release variety with shell pink flowers that have a small yellow centre. The flowers sit up on the foliage and a mass colour display is produced for months. Height 60 CMS

Federation “Sugar Buttons” - A white double daisy with soft lemon centres. Sugar Buttons forms a compact bush and is very free flowering. It has a cute compact habit. It does require protection from frosts. Height 60 cm by 60 CMS.