Asteraceae, native to Europe.

Germination: Best sown indoors at a temperature of 68-70° and with no cover as light aids in germination. Expect germination in 10-15 days. Seeds can also be sown outdoors during early spring; in mild areas they can be sown outdoors in late summer.

Growth: Transplant when there are at least two sets of true leaves. Space 6 inches apart in full sun or light shade. Site in a light, rich, fertile, moist, well-drained soil. Keep them well watered and fertilize them monthly. Deadhead the flowers to prevent plants from self sowing around the garden. This plant does best in climates with cool summers; treat it as an annual in Zones 8-10.

Appearance and Use: Grow it in borders, rock gardens, in containers, and as a bedding plant. The plants form 4-6 inch tall by 2-8 inch wide basal rosettes of spoon-shaped leaves. The single or double, white, pink, red, or purple, daisy-like flowers appear in May and June.