Species michaelmas daisy
blue flower with yellow center, green leaves and stem

michaelmas daisy

Symphyotrichum novi-belgii 'Blue Lagoon'

The Michaelmas Daisy is an attractive perennial that produces gorgeous, daisy-like flowers. This easy to grow plant features deep blue petals with yellow-orange centers which appear in late summer or early fall. Each flower is roughly 1 inch in size, and clusters of blooms form into majestic displays. Growing up to 36 inches in height and 24 inches wide, the Michaelmas Daisy, also known as the Symphyotrichum novi-belgii, will make a bold statement in gardens. It's 'Blue Lagoon' variety will provide vivid pops of dark blue. This plant prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, fertile soils; it tolerates some drought and is an evergreen in mild winter climates.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 8

Flowers:

Clear blue Flowers In Summer

Sun:

Full sun

Soil:

Well-drained

Fruits:

blue,brown Fruits In Autumn Ready In

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

The Michaelmas daisy should be watered regularly during the growing season (spring and summer), which typically runs from May through October. It should be watered an average of about 1 inch of water per week. Water deeply and slowly, allowing the water to soak into the soil and reach the roots. Reduce watering to only once or twice a month during winter and rainy periods. If the soil is very dry for an extended period, add more water to hydrate the plant.

sunlight

Michaelmas Daisies should receive at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. This includes full sun during peak hours of the day (around midday to mid-afternoon). If possible, they should also be sheltered from the hottest part of the day to prevent damage from sunburn or stress to the plant. Michaelmas Daisies also require some afternoon shade to avoid heat stress. Overly warm temperatures or extended periods of direct, hot sunlight can cause scorching of leaves and wilting of blooms. For best results, place Michaelmas Daisies in bright, indirect sun for most of the day and only direct sun for the peak hours.

pruning

Michaelmas Daisy should be pruned annually in late winter or early spring. This will help to keep the plants compact and encourage new growth. Pruning should involve the removal of any dead or diseased stems or foliage as well as any stems that cross or rub against each other. The flowering stems can also be shortened by about a third in order to encourage branching and a more compact plant. This will also promote more flowers for the following season. If the plant becomes too large and outgrows its space, it can be pruned back hard to desired shape and size. It should recover quickly and flower heavily.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Michaelmas daisies typically start flowering in late summer or early fall, usually in September or October.

Harvest Fruit

September and October.

Hardiness Map