Culture
Annual. Easily grown in average, evenly moist, well-drained soils in full sun. Needs consistent moisture, but prefers soils slightly on the dry side. Sow seed directly in the garden after last frost date. For earlier bloom, start seed indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost date. Set seedlings or purchased plants out after last frost date. Although plants are quite tolerant of hot and humid summer weather, taller stems tend to flop in the heat of summer. Deadheading is not required. May self-seed in optimum growing conditions.
Noteworthy Characteristics
Melampodium divaricatum, commonly called melampodium or butter daisy, is an aster family annual that produces solitary daisy-like flowers (to 1” wide) with yellow rays and darker yellow centers from spring to fall on plants growing 12-24” tall. As the flowers fade, the stems branch to produce additional bloom. Light green, entire, oblong stem leaves on purplish stems. Nomenclature for melampodium is quite confusing. Some authorities list this plant to be synonymous with Leucanthemum paludosum (baby marguerite). However, L. paludosum is in reality a totally different plant: a 2-6” tall cool weather annual featuring daisy-like flowers with white rays and yellow centers and serrate foliage.
Genus name comes from the Greek melam meaning black and pous meaning foot for its black stalks.
Specific epithet means spreading or growing in a straggling manner.
'Derby' is a compact bushy cultivar growing 12-18 inches tall, but produces an abundance of 1-inch golden-yellow daisy-like flowers throughout summer to first frost in a continuous and showy floral display. Excellent for window boxes, containers or as a bedding plant.
Problems
No serious insect or disease problems. Susceptible to powdery mildew.
Uses
Borders, beds, pots/containers. Cutting gardens.