Product Description
Leucanthemum superbum 'Cream Puff' PP30074 (30)ct Flat
Common Name: Shasta Daisy
This Shasta Daisy has the best of both worlds: lemon yellow buds that open to cream flowers and also a tight, compact habit. The large, 3-4" flowers have two rows of wide, overlapping petals. The top layer of petals curves upward at a 45° angle from the bottom layer of petals, creating a more formal look. Flowers completely cover the dome-shaped habit of dark green foliage. This beauty will bloom for many weeks starting in early summer, and deadheading will encourage rebloom.
As an added bonus for growers, 'Cream Puff' does not require vernalization to bloom. We have observed rebloom late summer through fall with deadheading. Perfect for containers or near the front of the border.
Shasta Daisies are all-time favorites for the perennial border. The cheery flowers begin to appear in early summer and continue on for several months if faithfully deadheaded. Shastas mix so effortlessly with other perennials that no garden should be without them!
Leucanthemums require full sun and well-drained soil to be at their best. Winter drainage is especially important; planting in raised beds will help to provide these conditions. Shastas make good perennials for Southern gardens, though partial shade is recommended in the warmest zones.
Height: 14.0-16.0 Inches; Spread: 26.0-28.0 Inches
Hardiness Zones: 5,6,7,8,9
Flower Color: White Shades, Yellow Shades; Foliage Color: Green shades
Full Sun (> 6 hrs. Direct Sun)
Low to Average Water Needs
Average to Fertile Soil Quality
Bloomtime: Early Summer-Late Summer; Long Blooming
Attracts Butterflies
Bee Friendly
Border Plant, Cut Flower, Easy To Grow, Mass Planting
Leucanthemum superbum 'Cream Puff' is a delightful perennial that belongs to the Shasta daisy family. Renowned for its charming cream-colored flowers and compact growth habit, this variety is a favorite among those seeking to add a touch of elegance to their gardens.
Characteristics 'Cream Puff' stands out with its large, 3-4 inch flowers, each boasting two rows of wide, overlapping petals. This double layer of petals gives 'Cream Puff' a more refined and elegant appearance compared to other Shasta daisy varieties. The top layer of petals gracefully curves upward at a 45° angle from the bottom layer, creating a unique and formal look. The flowers emerge from distinctive lemon-yellow buds, adding an extra layer of visual interest to the garden. As an added bonus, 'Cream Puff' does not require vernalization to bloom, meaning it can flower without experiencing a period of cold temperatures. The blooms generously cover the dome-shaped habit of dark green foliage, creating a stunning display that lasts for many weeks starting in early summer. To encourage rebloom, regular deadheading is recommended.
Growth Habits 'Cream Puff' maintains a tight, compact habit, typically reaching a height of 14-16 inches and a spread of 26-28 inches. It exhibits a medium to rapid growth rate, quickly filling its designated space in the garden. When planted in masses, individual plants should be spaced approximately 24 inches apart. This spacing allows for adequate air circulation and prevents overcrowding, promoting healthy growth and abundant blooms.
Care Requirements
- Sunlight Shasta daisies, including 'Cream Puff', thrive in abundant sunshine. Select a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to ensure optimal growth and flowering. While they can tolerate some light shade, prolonged periods of shade may result in reduced flowering.
- Soil Well-drained soil is crucial for the health of 'Cream Puff' Shasta daisies. Heavy clay soil can be amended with compost to improve drainage and prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. The ideal soil pH for 'Cream Puff' is slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 5.8 to 6.2.
- Water While 'Cream Puff' prefers consistently moist soil, it can tolerate short periods of drought once established. Maintain moderate moisture levels, ensuring the soil does not become overly dry or waterlogged. Regular watering is essential, especially during hot, dry periods, to prevent stress and promote healthy growth.
- Fertilizer Leucanthemum 'Cream Puff' are moderate feeders, requiring a balanced supply of nutrients for optimal growth and flowering. A liquid feed program with a rate of 50-100 ppm nitrate or a controlled-release fertilizer at a rate equivalent to 1-1.5 pounds of nitrogen per yard of growing medium can be applied. Fertilize in the spring to provide the necessary nutrients for the growing season.
- Maintenance To encourage continuous blooming and prevent self-seeding, deadhead faded flowers regularly. Dividing the clumps every 2-3 years in spring or fall helps maintain plant vigor and prevent overcrowding. In the fall, after the foliage turns yellow, cut back the stems to 2 inches above the ground to prepare the plant for winter dormancy.
Landscape Uses Shasta daisies, including 'Cream Puff', offer a multitude of landscape uses. Their versatility and adaptability make them suitable for various garden settings.
- Borders: Shasta daisies create a classic cottage garden feel when planted in borders, blending beautifully with other perennials.
- Cut Flowers: Their long-lasting blooms make excellent additions to bouquets, bringing a touch of cheerfulness to indoor spaces.
- Containers: 'Cream Puff' is well-suited for container gardening, adding a touch of charm to patios and balconies.
- Naturalized Areas: Shasta daisies can be incorporated into wildflower meadows or naturalistic plantings, enhancing the biodiversity and visual appeal of these areas.
- Mass Plantings: When planted in masses, Shasta daisies create a bold and dramatic display of color. This technique is particularly effective for creating a sea of white blooms that brightens up a shady area or adds a touch of elegance to a border.
Pests and Diseases While generally resistant to pests and diseases, 'Cream Puff' Shasta daisies can occasionally be affected by certain insects and diseases. Aphids are the most common insect pest, but whiteflies, thrips, spider mites, and four-lined plant bugs can also pose a threat. Regularly inspect your plants for signs of infestation and take appropriate measures to control pests if necessary.
In addition to insect pests, Shasta daisies can be susceptible to diseases such as powdery mildew and bacterial spots. Powdery mildew appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves, while bacterial spots manifest as dark brown or black spots. To prevent these diseases, ensure proper air circulation around the plants, avoid overhead watering, and remove any infected leaves promptly.
Leucanthemum s. 'Cream Puff' is a charming and versatile perennial that adds a touch of elegance to any garden. Its compact growth habit, long blooming period, and ease of care make it an excellent choice for gardeners of all levels. This Shasta daisy thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, and it requires moderate watering and occasional fertilization. With its refined double layer of petals and creamy white flowers, 'Cream Puff' creates a stunning display in borders, containers, and mass plantings. While generally low-maintenance, it's important to be aware of potential pests and diseases and take appropriate measures to ensure the plant's health and longevity. A search for gardening forums and communities discussing 'Cream Puff' specifically did not yield any results, however, it's worth noting that gardening forums and communities can be valuable resources for learning more about 'Cream Puff' from other gardeners' experiences. By following the care requirements outlined above, you can ensure that your 'Cream Puff' Shasta daisy thrives and brings beauty to your garden for years to come.
Thirty (30) plants per flat (or tray). Approximate Plug Measurements: 3 inches deep x 2 inches wide.
Other Details
The most important part of the plant is its root system. Healthy roots are the foundation of a healthy, vibrant plant. The type of plug container used is based on the specific needs of the plants. Perennials offered as bare root traditionally perform better when planted as bare root.Planted in a specialized mix, potted plants have well established root systems. Top growth stage will vary depending on the current life cycle and time of year when shipped. In Winter and early Spring dormant plants may be shipped. Dormant plants may be planted right away, even before the last frost date.
Most bare root varieties are field grown for at least one season, though Hemerocallis and Hosta are grown for two seasons. The bulk of the soil is removed during the harvesting process and the tops of most varieties are trimmed back to the crown. They are graded, packed in shredded aspen or sphagnum moss and stored in freezers until ready to be shipped.
See our Container Sizes and Bare Root Perennials pages for more information.
Plant information and care is provided in the Overview section, Plant Genus Page and general information is provided in the Planting Care & Guides. Additional questions can be asked on each Plant page.
Plant Spacing: Using the maximum mature spread or width of a plant to guide spacing, ensures space to grow to full size. To fill an area sooner, plant them closer together. Just remember, future thinning or transplanting may be needed.
Water: Keep a close eye on newly planted perennials, especially throughout the first growing year. Most early plant loss is due to too much or too little water!
