Melampodium leucanthum (Blackfoot Daisy)

Noted for its long blooming season, Melampodium leucanthum (Blackfoot Daisy) is a sturdy perennial forming a low, bushy mound covered with narrow gray-green leaves and honey-scented, white daisies, 1 in. across (2.5 cm). Resembling White Zinnia (Zinnia acerosa), the flower heads feature 8-13 broad white rays, with distinctive notches at their tips, surrounding a small yellow central disk. Borne singly at the top of slender stems, they bloom from early spring to fall, providing months of color. Tough, heat and drought tolerant, Blackfoot Daisy is ideal for sunny rock gardens, borders, containers and is a perfect species for xeric gardens.

• Grows up to 6-12 in. tall (15-30 cm) and 12-24 in. wide (30-60 cm). Blackfoot Daisy may be short-lived, but self-sows, keeping its presence in the garden.
• Thrives in full sun or part shade in rocky, gravelly sandy, acidic, dry, well-drained soils. Good soil drainage is critical. Rich soil and abundant water may shorten its lifespan.
• Excellent choice for beds and borders, rock gardens or prairies and meadows.
• Robust, low maintenance, pest and disease free, Blackfoot Daisy is also drought tolerant and deer resistant.
• In late winter, cut back to keep the plant compact.
• Native from Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Mexico.