Also known as yellow chamomile, this short-lived perennial is native to Europe, the Mediterranean area, and western Asia. It is a member of the aster family (Asteraceae) that also includes daisies, sunflowers, and lettuce, and has bright yellow to orange daisy-like flowerheads l.5 inches across. The flowers last a long time both on the plant and in the vase. The three inch long leaves are aromatic, finely divided and downy on the underside. Although the plants are short lived they readily self-seed and are also easy to propagate by leaf or root cuttings as well as by division. Cultivars are available the most popular of which is ‘Kelwayi’ with lemon yellow flowers two inches across and standing 2.5-3 feet high. Golden marguerite grows best in cool areas of the US and falter in the South.
Type: Short-lived perennial/biennial
Size: 1.5-3’ H x 2.5’ W
Light: Full sun
Soil: Average to lean, moderately moist, well-drained
Hardiness: Zones 3-7
Beneficial Insects Attracted: Syrphid flies, lacewings, ladybugs, parasitic wasps, tachinid flies, solider beetles