Daisies are widely recognized flowers, often associated with simple beauty. While many envision a specific type, the term “daisy” encompasses a diverse group of plants.
The Classic Daisy
The common daisy, Bellis perennis, is the flower most individuals envision. This perennial herbaceous plant displays a prominent central yellow disc, which is actually a cluster of many small disc florets. Surrounding this vibrant yellow center are white ray florets, often referred to as petals, which can sometimes exhibit a subtle pink or reddish hue. These blooms typically grow close to the ground, reaching heights of up to 20 centimeters (8 inches).
Its distinctive leaves are small, rounded, or spoon-shaped, forming a compact rosette. Each individual flower head rises on its own slender, leafless stem, usually 2 to 10 centimeters (0.75 to 4 inches) in height. Bellis perennis is a familiar sight across Europe, where it is native, commonly flourishing in lawns and meadows.
A Spectrum of Daisy Hues
While the common daisy defines the classic image, the term “daisy” encompasses a variety of flowers with a similar composite bloom structure, introducing a much wider palette of colors beyond white and yellow. Shasta daisies (Leucanthemum × superbum) are a popular example, known for their larger blooms with white petals and a yellow center. Some cultivated varieties include shades of lemon yellow that fade to creamy white.
Gerbera daisies (Gerbera jamesonii), originating from South Africa, present an extensive and vibrant array of colors. Their large, showy blooms come in a complete rainbow of shades, including fiery reds, bright oranges, sunny yellows, soft pinks, pure whites, and rich purples. Some Gerbera varieties are even bicolored, displaying two distinct hues on their petals, while their central floral disk can range from yellowish to light bronze or black. These flowers are highly valued for their striking appearance and their longevity as cut flowers.
African daisies, primarily from the genera Dimorphotheca and Osteospermum, further expand the floral color spectrum. Dimorphotheca pluvialis, also known as the Cape rain-daisy, typically features ray florets that are white to yellowish, sometimes accented with blue or purple markings, while its disc florets can have purple tips. These flowers are known to close at night or during cloudy weather, reopening with the sun.
Osteospermum species, often referred to as Cape daisies or daisybushes, are celebrated for their diverse and bright color range. Their blooms include pure white, cream, various yellows, soft to bold pinks, mauves, deep purples, and vibrant oranges and reds. Many Osteospermum cultivars also feature attractive contrasting dark centers or unique spoon-shaped petals, enhancing their visual interest. This broad range of colors illustrates that the “daisy” family is far more varied than its common namesake suggests, offering a full spectrum of hues for diverse landscapes.
The Science Behind Daisy Colors
The vibrant colors observed in daisies and other flowers result primarily from specific chemical compounds known as pigments, found within their cells. Two main classes of pigments contribute to flower coloration: anthocyanins and carotenoids. Anthocyanins are water-soluble pigments responsible for red, pink, purple, and blue hues. Their precise shade can vary based on the pH level within the flower’s cells.
Carotenoids are lipid-soluble pigments that produce yellow, orange, and red colors. These pigments also give many fruits and vegetables their distinct coloration. Carotenoids help protect plants from light damage and assist in light absorption for photosynthesis. The unique combination and concentration of these pigments within the petals determine the final color of the daisy.