What is a Crown Daisy?

Glebionis coronaria, also known as Crown Daisy or Garland Chrysanthemum, is an annual or short-lived perennial flowering plant native to the Mediterranean region. 

Description: Glebionis coronaria has a branching growth habit with green, deeply lobed leaves resembling those of a carrot plant or chrysanthemum.

Size: Crown Daisy typically grows 2-4 feet (60-120 cm) tall and 1-2 feet (30-60 cm) wide.

Flowers: The plant produces bright yellow or white daisy-like flowers with a central disc, each measuring about 2 inches (5 cm) across.

Blooming season: Crown Daisy blooms from late spring to early autumn.

Hardiness: It is suitable for USDA hardiness zones 5-9, and can be grown as an annual in colder climates.

Uses: Crown Daisy is used as an ornamental plant in flower beds, borders, and containers, as well as a cut flower. The leaves and flowers are also edible.

Invasive: Crown Daisies can spread rapidly by self-seeding, and their seeds can be dispersed by wind or water. In some regions, it has been reported as invasive or potentially invasive, as it can outcompete native plants for resources, such as sunlight, water, and nutrients. Find where Crown Daisy is invasive in the United States.

Why Should I Grow Crown Daisies?

Growing Crown Daisies in your garden can offer several benefits and aesthetic appeal. Here are some reasons to consider planting them:

Colorful blooms: Crown Daisies produce bright yellow or white daisy-like flowers, adding a cheerful splash of color to your garden from late spring to early autumn.

Attract pollinators: The vibrant flowers of Crown Daisies attract various pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, contributing to the overall health and biodiversity of your garden.

Easy to grow: Crown Daisies are relatively low-maintenance and adaptable to a range of growing conditions, making them a suitable choice for both experienced and novice gardeners.

Edible leaves and flowers: The leaves and flowers of Crown Daisies are edible and used in various cuisines. They can add unique flavors and textures to many dishes.

Versatility: Crown Daisies are suitable for different garden settings, such as flower beds, borders, and containers. They also make attractive cut flowers, bringing color and charm to your indoor spaces.

By growing Crown Daisies, you can enjoy their vibrant flowers, attract pollinators, and even add an edible component to your garden. Keep in mind that the plant prefers consistent moisture, so you may need to provide supplemental irrigation during dry periods.

How to Eat Crown Daisy

Crown Daisy has edible leaves and flowers that can be used in various dishes, particularly in Asian cuisines. Here are a few ideas on how to eat Crown Daisy:

Salads: Add fresh, young leaves and flowers to salads for a unique flavor and a pop of color. Make sure to wash the leaves and flowers thoroughly before using them.

Stir-fries: Crown Daisy leaves can be added to stir-fries for a distinctive taste and texture. Cook the leaves with other vegetables, meat, or tofu, and season with your favorite stir-fry sauce.

Soups: Incorporate Crown Daisy leaves into soups or stews, as they are commonly used in Korean and Chinese cuisines. Add the leaves toward the end of cooking to prevent them from becoming too soft.

Steamed or boiled: Steam or boil the leaves as you would with other leafy greens, like spinach or kale. Season with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil, or toss with garlic and soy sauce for an Asian-inspired side dish.

Rice dishes: Add chopped Crown Daisy leaves to rice dishes, such as fried rice or pilaf, for extra flavor and nutrients.

Omelets or frittatas: Mix Crown Daisy leaves with eggs, cheese, and other vegetables to create a delicious omelet or frittata.

Tempura: Dip Crown Daisy leaves or flowers in tempura batter and deep-fry them for a crispy, tasty appetizer or snack.

Before consuming Crown Daisy, ensure it has been grown without the use of harmful chemicals or pesticides, and wash the leaves and flowers thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. As with any new food, start by consuming a small amount to ensure you do not have an allergic reaction or sensitivity.

When to Plant

Sow Crown Daisy seeds directly outdoors after the last frost in your area, or start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost date. Transplant seedlings outdoors after the danger of frost has passed.

Where to Plant

Sunlight: This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade, aiming for at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth and flower production.

Soil: Crown Daisy can be planted in ordinary garden soil, but it prefers well-drained sandy soil.

Placement: Crown Daisy can be planted in flower beds, mixed borders, or containers. Ensure the area you choose has enough space for the mature size of the plant.

How to Plant

• Prepare the planting site by loosening the soil to a depth of about 12 inches (30 cm) and amending it with compost or well-rotted manure to improve drainage and fertility.
• If sowing seeds directly outdoors, scatter the seeds thinly over the prepared soil and lightly cover them with a thin layer of soil or fine compost.
• Keep the soil consistently moist until germination, which usually occurs within 1-2 weeks.
• Thin the seedlings to a spacing of 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) apart once they have developed at least two sets of true leaves. This spacing will allow adequate air circulation and room for growth.
• If transplanting seedlings started indoors, gently remove the seedlings from their containers, taking care not to damage the delicate roots. Plant them at the same depth as they were in their containers and space them 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) apart.
• Water the transplanted seedlings thoroughly to help them settle into their new location.

Crown Daisy Care

Caring for Crown Daisy is generally straightforward. Here are some essential care tips to help you maintain healthy, blooming plants:

Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant regularly, ensuring adequate moisture, especially during hot or dry periods. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.

Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth and abundant flowering. Alternatively, you can use a liquid fertilizer at half strength every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.

Deadheading: Remove spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming throughout the season and maintain a tidy appearance.

Pruning: Lightly trim the plant back in late winter or early spring to promote bushy growth and remove any dead or damaged foliage.

Pest and disease control: The Crown Daisy is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, keep an eye out for common garden pests such as aphids, slugs, and snails, and treat them accordingly. Good air circulation and well-draining soil can help prevent fungal diseases.

By following these care tips, you can maintain healthy, vibrant Crown Daisy plants and enjoy their charming, colorful flowers throughout the blooming season.

How to Propagate Crown Daisy

Propagating Crown Daisy is typically done through seeds, as it's an annual or short-lived perennial in many regions. Here's how to propagate Crown Daisy using seeds:

Seed collection: Allow a few flowers to mature and develop seed heads. Once the seed heads turn brown and dry, carefully collect the seeds by either gently rubbing the seed heads between your fingers or using a pair of scissors to cut them off.

Seed storage: Store the collected seeds in a cool, dry, and dark place until it's time to plant. Use a paper envelope or a small container with a tight-fitting lid to keep the seeds secure.

Seed sowing: You can start the seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost date in your area or sow them directly outdoors after the last frost. For indoor seed starting, use seed trays or small pots filled with a well-draining seed-starting mix or potting soil. Lightly cover the seeds with soil or fine compost.

Germination conditions: Keep the soil consistently moist until germination occurs, which usually takes 1-2 weeks. If starting seeds indoors, place the seed trays or pots in a bright, warm location, such as a sunny windowsill or under grow lights.

Transplanting: Once the seedlings have developed at least two sets of true leaves and the risk of frost has passed, transplant them into your garden or into containers. Space the seedlings 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) apart to allow adequate room for growth and air circulation.

By following these propagation steps, you can successfully grow Crown Daisy from seeds and enjoy their colorful blooms in your garden or containers.