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Shasta Daisy 'Becky' (Leucanthemum × superbum) — garden perennial

Shasta Daisy 'Becky'

Leucanthemum × superbum

$6.0032 in stock

Leucanthemum (Shasta Daisy) Care Guide

Classic white daisies that brighten any border — a reliable, long-blooming cottage garden staple.

perennial full-sun cut-flower long-blooming cottage-garden

Overview

Leucanthemum × superbum, commonly called Shasta Daisy, produces cheerful white daisy flowers with bright yellow centers from early to midsummer. The variety 'Becky' is one of the most vigorous and heat-tolerant Shastas available — reaching 3–4 feet with large, strong-stemmed flowers that stand up to summer storms. An American garden classic and one of the best perennials for cut flowers.

Sun & Exposure

  • Ideal: Full sun (6+ hours daily)
  • Tolerated: Light afternoon shade — plants may be slightly taller
  • 'Becky' is notably heat tolerant for a Shasta Daisy

Watering

Prefers moderate, consistent moisture.

  • Water regularly, especially during the first season and summer blooming period
  • Allow the top inch of soil to dry between waterings
  • Drought tolerant once established but performs better with consistent moisture
  • Avoid waterlogged soil

Soil & Planting

  • Average, well-draining soil
  • Slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.0)
  • Plant in spring or fall; space 18–24 inches apart
  • Divide every 2–3 years when the center of the clump dies out

Fertilizing

  • Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring
  • A light liquid feed in early summer supports the bloom season

Pruning & Deadheading

  • Deadhead spent blooms to extend flowering and prevent excessive self-seeding
  • After the main flush, cut stems back to basal foliage — may trigger a second flush in late summer
  • Cut to the ground in late fall

Winter Care

Hardy in zones 4–9. Very reliable in cold climates. In warmer zones (8–9), may go semi-evergreen. 'Becky' is notably more heat and humidity tolerant than older Shasta varieties.

Common Issues

Problem

Center of clump dying out

Cause

Normal after 2–3 years; needs division

Problem

Floppy stems

Cause

Too much shade or overly rich soil; stake if needed

Problem

Verticillium wilt

Cause

Soil-borne fungus; improve drainage, rotate location

Problem

Short bloom period

Cause

Needs consistent deadheading

Tips

  • One of the longest-lasting cut flowers; harvest when fully open
  • Self-seeds moderately — deadhead if unwanted seedlings are a concern
  • Excellent mid-border plant; pairs beautifully with Delphinium, Salvia, and Echinacea
  • 'Becky' is award-winning and considered the gold standard for hot-summer gardens