How to Grow Argyranthemum
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Argyranthemum
Argyranthemum frutescens
shrubArgyranthemum, commonly known as marguerite daisy or Paris daisy, is a tender perennial shrub native to the Canary Islands. It produces abundant daisy-like flowers in white, pink, yellow, or bi-colors on finely divided, feathery foliage. This plant blooms prolifically from spring through fall and is popular as a specimen, container, or bedding plant.
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Example Argyranthemum timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Argyranthemum
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Argyranthemum
Around Jun 1≈ 45 days after planting
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 9-11; grown as an annual in colder zones
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Seedling
2-4 weeksSmall plants with delicate, finely divided foliage emerging from seed or transplants
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Provide bright light. Protect from strong winds.
Vegetative Growth
4-6 weeksPlant develops bushy structure with increasing foliage and feathery leaves; no flowers yet
Pinch growing tips when 6-8 inches tall to encourage branching. Water moderately. Feed with balanced fertilizer every 2 weeks.
Budding & Flowering Begins
2-3 weeksFlower buds form at branch tips; first daisy-like flowers appear
Switch to lower-nitrogen, higher-phosphorus fertilizer to promote flowering. Maintain consistent watering.
Peak Flowering
8-16 weeks (spring through fall)Abundant blooms cover the plant in continuous waves of flowers
Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming. Fertilize every 2-3 weeks. Water during dry spells.
Dormancy/Rest Period
2-4 months (winter)Flowering slows or stops in winter; plant may drop some foliage
Reduce watering significantly. Cut back hard in late winter to rejuvenate. Move indoors or provide protection in zones below 9.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with strong water stream or use insecticidal soap; introduce ladybugs
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Increase humidity; spray with neem oil or miticide; maintain air circulation
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Yellow sticky traps; spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil
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Remove heavily infested leaves; apply neem oil; encourage predatory insects
Uses
Edible Flowers
CulinaryArgyranthemum flowers are edible and can garnish salads, desserts, and cocktails, adding a delicate daisy appearance and mild flavor. [source]
Cut Flowers & Arrangements
HouseholdThe prolific, long-lasting blooms make excellent cut flowers for vases and floral arrangements, providing continuous color for weeks. [source]
Dried Flower Crafts
CraftFlowers dry well and can be pressed, dried, or used in potpourri, wreaths, and dried arrangements for long-lasting decorative crafts. [source]
Traditional Herbal Use
MedicinalIn traditional Canary Island medicine, argyranthemum has been used in herbal infusions for mild digestive support, though scientific evidence is limited. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeThe open daisy flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators, making it an excellent plant for supporting garden ecosystems. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Deadhead faded flowers regularly by pinching or cutting just below the spent bloom to promote continuous flowering throughout the season. Cut back stems by one-third to one-half in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and vigor.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Argyranthemum is native to the Canary Islands and thrives in Mediterranean climates; the genus name derives from Greek 'argyros' (silver) and 'anthos' (flower), referring to the silvery foliage of some species.
- 🌱 In milder climates, argyranthemum can bloom almost year-round if deadheaded regularly, potentially producing hundreds of flowers from a single plant per season.
- 🌱 The plant was formerly classified in the genus Chrysanthemum and remains related to cultivated mums, but tolerates heat and drought far better than most chrysanthemums.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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