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Oxeye Daisy

Leucanthemum vulgare

A Flower Beetle resting on a large Oxeye Daisy, image by Pip Gray

In bloom around the summer solstice, this large daisy is a sure sign that summer has arrived.

Each large flower is actually not just one flower, but many. The yellow centre is made up of lots of small yellow flowers, just like its smaller relative, the daisy.

The nectar from these flowers is an important food source for pollinating insects like beetles, bees, and butterflies.

How to spot it

The Oxeye daisy looks similar to the daisy but it is a much larger plant. It is taller, reaching a height of up to 70 cm, and its larger flowerheads can be up to 6 cm across. The base leaves are spoon-shaped and up to 8 cm long. The stem leaves are toothed and more oblong.

Where to spot it

Oxeye daisy is a common plant that grows in grassy places. It can be seen in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, dunes, coastal cliffs, verges and waste ground.

In both urban and rural areas, the Oxeye daisy can be found lining roadsides in grass verges, making them a common sight for many during British summertime.

Things you might not know

  • Oxeye daisy is widely cultivated and available as an ornamental plant for gardens and meadow landscapes.
  • In Austria and Germany, it was hung inside the house as it was believed it would repel lightening.
  • Some people have marinated unopened flower buds and used them like capers.

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