Japanese name: ヒナギク（雛菊） Scientific name:Bellis perennis
[Overview]
A perennial about 10–20 cm tall.
In Japan it is often weakened or killed by summer heat after flowering, so it is treated as an annual.
The leaves are simple and alternate, spatulate to obovate, usually entire, but rarely deeply wavy-cut.
A single flower head is borne at the tip of the flower stalk; the ray florets are female and white to pale pink, and the tubular florets are bisexual and yellow.
Garden cultivars also come in colors such as deep red and in streaked forms.
[History]
It is seen in decoration from the era of the Egyptian dynasties, and in Europe too it has long been depicted in works of art, with many anecdotes about it.
There is a record of its use in salads as a medicinal herb in the 15th century.
[Uses]
It is used in spring flower beds and in pots.
The young leaves and flowers are eaten, and it is used as a folk remedy for cuts.
[Cultivation]
It prefers a sunny site with soil that is well drained and holds water well.
It is not particular about soil type, but fertile soil rich in phosphate gives better flowering.
It also dislikes extreme dryness, so take care not to let potted plants in particular run out of water.
It is relatively cold-hardy, but should be protected from cold wind and heavy frost.
Propagate from seed.
Sow seed in August–September.
Sclerotinia disease and aphids are seen as pests.
