Oxeye Daisy
British native · Wildflower
Oxeye Daisy is a cheerful, long-lived British native meadow perennial, recognised by its large white petals and golden central disc. It flowers freely from late spring into summer, bringing the open, relaxed look of a traditional wildflower meadow to borders, lawns and sunny wildlife patches.
Why grow it
Its generous, accessible flowers provide pollen and nectar for a wide range of insects, while its bright display lifts a naturalistic planting scheme. Oxeye Daisy is especially useful where you want a low-maintenance meadow feel without rich soil. It is included among RHS Plants for Pollinators and combines beautifully with grasses and other native flowers.
How to grow it
Choose an open position with full sun and well-drained, ordinary to poor soil. Avoid heavily fertilised ground, which favours vigorous grasses over wildflowers. Sow UK native-origin seed from a reputable supplier in autumn or spring onto bare, lightly firmed soil, or plant small plug plants 25 to 30 cm apart. Keep young plants watered during dry spells in their first season. Once established, cut meadow areas in late summer and remove the cuttings.
Wildlife value
The broad flower heads are visited by bumblebees, honeybees, solitary bees, hoverflies and small beetles. Butterflies, including meadow browns and skippers, may also feed at the blooms. Leaving some stems and surrounding meadow vegetation through winter creates useful cover for overwintering invertebrates and adds structure to a wildlife-friendly garden.
Tips
For the most natural effect, sow it in small drifts rather than neat rows. Keep it away from very rich borders, where it can be overshadowed. Buy seed or plants of UK native origin from reputable suppliers; never lift plants or collect seed from the wild.
Growing Oxeye Daisy: frequently asked questions
Why grow oxeye daisy in a UK garden?
Its generous, accessible flowers provide pollen and nectar for a wide range of insects, while its bright display lifts a naturalistic planting scheme.
How do I grow oxeye daisy?
Choose an open position with full sun and well-drained, ordinary to poor soil.
What wildlife does oxeye daisy support?
The broad flower heads are visited by bumblebees, honeybees, solitary bees, hoverflies and small beetles.
Grow native plants of UK origin from reputable suppliers, never collected from the wild. Page updated 18 Sep 2026.