Melampodium leucanthum
Family: Asteraceae
Description: A low, round, bushy perennial plant with flower heads of 8-13 broad white rays surrounding a small yellow central disc. Plains Blackfoot or Blackfoot Daisy is a low, bushy, mounded perennial, usually 6-12 in. tall and twice as wide. It is covered with narrow leaves and 1 in. wide, white, daisy-like flowers. The white rays are toothed at the tips and surround yellow disc flowers. These honey-scented flower heads are solitary and terminal on slender stalks.
Field Identification: Erect herb with white flowers in heads. Heads with single row ray flowers. Peduncle with 2 rows of erect white hairs. The leaf margins are entire, contributing to a clean and tidy appearance. This plant’s foliage is a vibrant green.
Plant Trivia: This plant is not native to the Coastal Bend but may be grown here. It may be purchased from nurseries or by seed packets.
Occurrence: Native plant of the SW United States; Extends from San Antonio northwestward to New Mexico.
Bloom Period: March-Nov
Plant Use: Along with rock gardens, this plant can also be utilized in mass planting, borders, or in the middle of flower beds. It does not require deadheading to continue producing flowers, but deadheading will tend to limit self-seeding. Birds are also attracted to seeds. Not only does it attract butterflies and pollinators, but it also resists deer, ensuring its longevity in wildlife-rich areas.
stxflora 