Daisies

Daisies are a fantastically diverse bloom that is relatively easy to grow just about anywhere.  In fact, daisies successfully grow in the wild all over the globe.  Further, this relative of the Aster comes in a variety of unique hues.  Therefore, daisies make for an ideal addition to gardens and other unique floral arrangements!

Daisies are in the same family as Asters, Calendulas, and Chrysanthemums.  Further, despite the fact that daisies heads look like one entire unit, they actually consist of three parts.  Daises have, what is referred to as, as central disc in the center of their bloom.  Additionally, within the central bloom are, what are known as, disc florets; disc florets are miniature flowers.  Finally, around and attached to the central disc are, what are referred to as, ray florets.  Ray florets are actually the colored petals of the bloom.

The daisy lends its origins to regions of Europe, but has been successfully grown world wide.  This blossom grows wild in many areas of the United States and often grows in an array of colors including, pink, yellow, purple, and the ever-popular white varieties.  Further, the typical white daisy is only one of well over 20,000 species of daisies that exist globally.

The most commonly known daisies include the African, Michaelmas, Ox-eyed, Painted, Shasta, Swan River, and Yellow varieties. Further, in particular, the Ox-eyed daisy is the most popular of all daisies as it grows in many backyards and along roadsides throughout the United States.  Additionally, Shasta daisies look remarkably similar to Ox-Eyed daisies, while Michaelmas daisies appear to look more like chicory than standard field daisies.

For those gardeners wishing to establish a butterfly garden, the Shasta variety of daisies is suitable for such purposes.  The beautiful bloom of the Shasta is particularly attractive to a number of butterflies.  Further, Shasta is a resilient species and rather easy to maintain.

Another well-known daisy is the Black-Eyed Susan.  Black-Eyed Susan blooms are recognized by their deep, dark central discs and vibrant yellow ray discs.  Further, like standard field daisies, the Black-Eyed Susan thrives beautifully in a wild environment and can often be seen in backyards and along roadsides throughout North America.

As far as emotional meaning, daisies are associated with a number of expressions.  First, daisies, because of their design, are associated with simplicity.  Secondly, due to their delicate petals, they are often used to convey messages pertaining to innocence.  Third, daisies are often thought to represent virtue, purity, and goodness: this is more than likely due to the coloring of the ever-popular white varieties. Finally, daisies are often linked with the idea of cheerfulness, as they are a flower that tends to turn toward the sunlight whenever the opportunity arises.