Ox-eye daisy

Leucanthemum vulgare
Family: Asteraceae

Growth Habit: Ox-eye daisy may reach a height of about 100cm, but more typically averages 30:60cm. It grows quite densely due to stems, which touch the ground often, take root and form new plants.

Type of Plant: An erect perennial herb.

Flowers: Ox-eye daisy flowers between September and December. The flower is a typical daisy type, with white petals and a yellow centre.

Fruit/Seed: The seeds are 1.4-2.5mm long and 0.6-1.2mm wide. They have distinctive raised and rounded slender ribs that run from base to tip.

Dispersal: Seed is dispersed by soil movement, wind and water. New plants arise from stems touching the ground.

Distribution: Ox-eye daisy prefers temperate regions, disturbed sites and heavy damp soil. It is most commonly found along roadsides in Tasmania.

Status: Undeclared in Tasmania.

Weed Impact:

  • Ox-eye daisy has minimal economic impact in Tasmania, however as it grows very densely it is capable of displacing native plants.
  • Single plants can produce 5000-8000 seeds.
  • Although not readily grazed it can contaminate milk if consumed.

For further information contact the Department of Primary Industry, Water and Environment, Tasmania.

Control Methods:

  • Cultivation (early flowering stage- Sept). Cultivation to at least 15cm exposing and killing root system. Shallower cultivation over 2 or 3 years kills seedlings and regrowth from root pieces.
  • Grazing (autumn and winter). Sheep may help eat young plants. Improve pastures to improve competition.
  • Herbicide (spring, summer). Herbicides registered in Tasmania include Dicamba, amitrole, MCPA and glyphosate.

N.B. Always check the herbicide label before use.