Marguerites in Your Pacific Northwest Yard: A Cheerful Surprise or a Garden Challenge?

In the lush gardens of the Pacific Northwest, surprises often pop up with the seasons. One such cheerful intruder you might notice is the marguerite daisy (Argyranthemum frutescens), known for its sunny white petals and golden centers. Often mistaken for wild daisies, marguerites can brighten up a lawn or flowerbed—but are they friend or foe?

Let’s take a closer look.

🌼 What Are Marguerites?

Marguerite daisies are bushy, perennial or tender perennial plants originally from the Canary Islands. With their classic daisy-like flowers, they’re often used in containers and borders for summer color. These flowers typically bloom from late spring to fall, thriving in full sun and well-drained soil.

🤔 Are They Wild or Planted?

Sometimes marguerites “volunteer” in yards from neighboring gardens, or from compost and seed mixes that spread unintentionally. If they’re blooming in your yard and you didn’t plant them, they may have naturalized from someone else’s landscaping.

🌱 Pros of Marguerites

• Attract pollinators like bees and butterflies
• Long bloom time brings color all summer
• Low-maintenance once established
• Fragrant foliage deters some pests

⚠️ Potential Issues

• Not native – While not classified as invasive, they can spread where not wanted.
• Short-lived – Some types need replanting each year.
• May crowd out delicate native flowers if left unchecked.
• Frost-sensitive – Some varieties may die back after a cold Pacific Northwest winter.

✅ What You Can Do

If you love the look, keep them! Marguerites can be a lovely addition when managed. But if they’re popping up in the wrong places or spreading beyond your plans, here’s how to handle them:

• Dig them up before they go to seed if you want to limit spread.
• Replace with native perennials for longer-term sustainability.
• Control edges of flowerbeds so they don’t jump borders.

🌿 Final Thoughts

Marguerite daisies are like nature’s little exclamation points—bright, bold, and full of charm. Whether you choose to keep them or clear them, being intentional with your landscape ensures your yard reflects the beauty and balance of the Pacific Northwest.

Need help managing garden surprises like marguerites—or planning a stunning, sustainable landscape? Call Levy’s Lawns and Landscaping at (360) 876-6567 for expert help and friendly service.