Nipponanthemum nipponicum (16/11/2013, Kew Gardens, London)
Position: Full sun
Flowering period: Autumn
Soil: Moist, well drained
Eventual Height: 1m
Eventual Spread: 1m
Hardiness: 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b
Family: Asteraceae
Nipponanthemum nipponicum is a semi-evergreen herbaceous perennial with a domed habit. Its dark green glossy leaves are lanceolate with serrate margins, up to 8cm long and 3cm broad. Its flowers are arranged as white rays with yellow centres and are up to 7cm across.
Nipponanthemum nipponicum Flower (16/11/2013, Kew Gardens, London)
Nipponanthemum nipponicum, commonly known as Nippon Daisy or Montauk Daisies, is native to Japan. Nipponanthemum nipponicum is synonymous with Chrysanthemum nipponicum.
The etymological root of the binomial name Nipponanthemum is derived from former name of Japan (Nippon) and the Greek anthemon meaning ‘flower’. nipponicum is a Latinised form of the former name for Japan, Nippon.
The landscape architect may find Nipponanthemum nipponicum useful as part of a herbaceous planting scheme. Once established this perennial is drought tolerant.
Ecologically, Nipponanthemum nipponicum flowers are attractive to pollinating insects.
Nipponanthemum nipponicum Leaf (16/11/2013, Kew Gardens, London)
Nipponanthemum nipponicum prefers moist, fertile, well-drained soils. It tolerates most pH of soil. It dislikes wet soils.
Nipponanthemum nipponicum requires little maintenance. It may be cut back hard in spring to maintain a compact habit and avoid it becoming leggy. Large clumps may be divided in spring every three years to maintain the vigor of this plant.