Daisies have long been a symbol of simplicity, purity, and cheerful charm in gardens around the world. With their sunny faces and classic petal arrangements, they’re a favorite among beginner and seasoned gardeners alike. While many people picture the traditional white-petaled variety, daisies come in a surprisingly wide range of shapes, sizes, and colors — each perfect for different garden styles. Whether you love wild cottage gardens or neat, modern borders, here are 8 gorgeous types of daisies to consider for your landscape.
1. Shasta Daisy (Leucanthemum × superbum)
The classic Shasta Daisy is what most people imagine when they think of a daisy. With crisp white petals and sunny yellow centers, these perennials bloom from early summer to early fall. Shasta Daisies grow 2 to 3 feet tall and prefer sunny locations with well-drained soil. They’re hardy, low-maintenance, and attract butterflies and pollinators. Ideal for cottage gardens, borders, and cutting gardens, popular varieties include ‘Becky’ and ‘Snow Lady’. Deadheading spent blooms encourages continuous flowering throughout the season.
2. Oxeye Daisy (Leucanthemum vulgare)
A close cousin of the Shasta Daisy, the Oxeye Daisy is a hardy wildflower native to Europe and Asia that’s now naturalized in many parts of the world. This charming plant grows 1 to 3 feet tall and produces masses of small, white blooms with golden centers from late spring to mid-summer. It thrives in meadows, roadside plantings, and informal gardens, adding a touch of wild beauty. Oxeye Daisies are tough, drought-tolerant, and can naturalize easily, making them perfect for low-maintenance, wildlife-friendly gardens.
3. Gerbera Daisy (Gerbera jamesonii)
For those who crave color, Gerbera Daisies offer bright, eye-catching blooms in shades of pink, red, orange, yellow, and white. Native to South Africa, these sun-loving perennials are typically grown as annuals in cooler climates. Growing up to 18 inches tall, they bloom from late spring through fall. Gerberas make wonderful cut flowers due to their sturdy stems and vibrant hues. Ideal for containers, borders, and sunny patios, they prefer well-drained, sandy soil and regular watering to thrive and rebloom.
4. African Daisy (Osteospermum)
African Daisies are known for their striking, often metallic or two-toned petals in shades of purple, pink, yellow, orange, and white. Native to South Africa, these sun-loving plants bloom from spring to fall in cooler weather but may slow during peak summer heat. They grow 10 to 24 inches tall and work beautifully in borders, containers, and rock gardens. African Daisies prefer full sun, well-drained soil, and occasional deadheading to encourage fresh blooms. Their unique color combinations add a bold, modern touch to any garden.
5. English Daisy (Bellis perennis)
A dainty, ground-hugging variety, the English Daisy is perfect for cottage gardens, edging, and lawn borders. Native to Europe, these compact plants grow 4 to 8 inches tall and bloom profusely in early spring to early summer. Flowers range from the classic white with yellow centers to shades of pink and red. English Daisies thrive in cooler climates and can self-sow easily, creating charming natural carpets of color. Varieties like ‘Pomponette’ feature button-like, double blooms that make delightful additions to spring gardens.
6. Marguerite Daisy (Argyranthemum frutescens)
Marguerite Daisies offer a soft, romantic touch with their delicate blooms and finely divided, fern-like foliage. Native to the Canary Islands, these plants are usually grown as annuals in cooler regions but are perennial in mild, frost-free climates. They grow 2 to 3 feet tall and bloom from spring through fall in shades of white, pink, and yellow. Marguerite Daisies are excellent for mixed borders, patio containers, and seaside gardens. They appreciate full sun, regular watering, and trimming back spent flowers for continuous blooming.
7. Painted Daisy (Tanacetum coccineum)
If you want daisies that go beyond the classic white, the Painted Daisy delivers vibrant, jewel-toned flowers in pink, red, magenta, and white with contrasting yellow centers. Native to Central Asia, these perennials grow 2 to 3 feet tall and bloom in late spring to early summer. Painted Daisies are not only beautiful but also known for their natural pest-repelling properties. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil and work well in cottage gardens, wildlife gardens, and as colorful backdrops for lower-growing plants.
8. Blue-Eyed African Daisy (Arctotis venusta)
For a truly unique addition, the Blue-Eyed African Daisy stands out with its silver-gray foliage and striking white petals with a vivid blue and yellow center. Native to South Africa, this sun-loving annual or tender perennial grows 12 to 18 inches tall and blooms from spring to fall. It’s drought-tolerant once established and excellent for hot, dry gardens, rock gardens, and borders. The silvery leaves provide year-round interest, while the daisy-like blooms attract pollinators and brighten any sunny spot with their unusual color combination.
Final Thoughts
Daisies are far more diverse than many gardeners realize, offering an impressive range of colors, shapes, and heights to suit every outdoor space and style. From classic Shasta Daisies to the bold hues of Gerbera and the exotic beauty of African and Blue-Eyed Daisies, there’s a perfect daisy variety for every backyard. Whether you’re designing a wildflower meadow, a formal border, or a cozy cottage garden, these eight types will bring timeless charm and easy-growing beauty to your landscape.
Would you like me to help plan a daisy-themed flower bed layout or a multi-season daisy planting guide too? I’d be happy to assist!
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