How to Grow Bellis Daisy Monstrosa
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Bellis Daisy Monstrosa
Bellis perennis 'Monstrosa'
flowerBellis perennis 'Monstrosa', commonly known as the Giant Daisy or Monstrosa Daisy, is a cultivar of the common English daisy bred for dramatically enlarged, fully double flowers that can reach 2 inches across. These charming perennials produce pompom-like blooms in shades of white, pink, and red atop compact, low-growing rosettes of foliage. They bloom prolifically from spring through early summer and are prized for borders, containers, and cut flowers.
When should you plant Bellis Daisy Monstrosa in your zone?
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Example Bellis Daisy Monstrosa timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Bellis Daisy Monstrosa
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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First Bellis Daisy Monstrosa blooms
Around Jun 16≈ 60 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Bellis Daisy Monstrosa dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-8; prefers cooler climates and can struggle in hot summers
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Get my Bellis Daisy Monstrosa timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
3-4 weeksTiny cotyledons emerge within 10-14 days; delicate true leaves follow, forming small rosette
Maintain consistent moisture and bright light. Provide cool temperatures (60-70°F). Avoid damping off by ensuring good air circulation.
Vegetative Growth
4-6 weeksCompact rosette develops with increasingly thick, lobed dark green basal leaves; plant remains low to ground
Harden off seedlings before transplanting. Space appropriately to prevent crowding. Feed with balanced or slightly lower nitrogen fertilizer to encourage blooming.
Flowering
6-10 weeksLarge, fully double pompom-like flowers open in white, pink, rose, or red; blooms are 1.5-2 inches across and held on short stems
Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming. Maintain moderate watering. Provide afternoon shade in hot regions to extend bloom season. Cut flowers last well in arrangements.
Decline & Dormancy
Varies by climate; continues through summer heatFlowering slows as temperatures rise or day length changes; foliage may thin; plant enters semi-dormancy
Cut back foliage by half to encourage fresh growth in cool seasons. Reduce watering but maintain some moisture. Plants may recover in fall in appropriate climates. Mulch lightly in winter in cold zones.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs; remove by strong water spray
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Increase humidity; spray with water; use miticide if severe; ensure good air circulation
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Hand-pick in evening; create copper barriers; apply diatomaceous earth; use slug traps
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Improve air circulation; reduce leaf wetness; apply sulfur dust or fungicide; remove infected foliage
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Remove affected leaves; avoid overhead watering; apply fungicide if widespread; ensure proper spacing
Uses
Edible flowers for garnish
CulinaryBellis daisy petals are edible and add a delicate, slightly sweet flavor and charming appearance to salads, desserts, and cocktails. [source]
Traditional herbal remedy
MedicinalBellis perennis has been used in traditional herbalism for minor wound healing, skin health, and respiratory support, though clinical evidence is limited. [source]
Fresh and dried cut flowers
CraftThe large pompom blooms are excellent for fresh bouquets and arrangements, and dry well for long-lasting crafts and pressed flower projects. [source]
Garden borders and containers
HouseholdCompact growth and prolific blooming make Monstrosa daisies ideal for edging borders, window boxes, containers, and small garden spaces. [source]
Pollinator support
WildlifeThough the double flowers produce less pollen, Bellis daisies attract bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects, contributing to garden ecosystem health. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Cut flowers in early morning when stems are fully hydrated. Hold the stem low and cut at a 45-degree angle. Harvest when flowers are fully open but before petals begin to reflex backward. Remove lower foliage before placing in water. Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage more flowering. Flowers last 7-10 days in a vase with fresh water changed every 2-3 days.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The name 'Bellis' comes from the Latin word 'bellus,' meaning 'beautiful,' and these daisies have been cultivated for centuries in European gardens.
- 🌱 The 'Monstrosa' cultivar was developed by selective breeding to create extraordinarily large, fully double flowers that can be 4-5 times larger than wild English daisies.
- 🌱 Bellis daisies have a fascinating sleep behavior called nyctinasty—they close their petals at night and open them again in daylight, tracking the sun's movement.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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