Family: Asteraceae Genus: Bellis
Species: Bellis perennis L.
Common Name(s): common daisy, bruisewort, perennial daisy
Bellis perennis, or the common daisy, is a perennial flowering plant native to Europe and Asia known for its bright white petals and yellow centers. One of the unique characteristics of the common daisy is that it’s actually composed of two different types of flowers. The outer white petals are ray flowers, while the yellow center is made up of disc flowers. Ray flowers are sterile and do not produce seeds, but they draw-in pollinators towards the center of the flower head where the fertile disc flowers are located. This combination makes for a striking visual display, and is one of the reasons why daisies are so popular.13
Etymology
Bellis may come from “bellus,” Latin for pretty, while “perennis” is Latin for everlasting. The name daisy comes from the Anglo-Saxon term “daeges eye” or “day’s eye.” The name was given because the little pink and white English daisy closes at nightfall and opens again at sunrise, thus it is the eye of the day.14
Fables, Folklore, and Mythology
There are many superstitions about the daisy. One belief is that spring has not arrived until you can step on 12 daisies at once. Also, if you eat the roots of daisies, they will stunt your growth, but if you eat three heads of daisies after having a tooth pulled, you will never have a toothache again.15 Daisies are often associated with innocence, purity, and new beginnings, making them a popular choice for wedding bouquets and special occasions. They also symbolize childlike wonder and happiness. Daisies have traditionally been used for making daisy chains in children’s games.
Cultural Significance
The daisy is the national flower of the Netherlands.
Traditional Medicine
Ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Romans used the flowers and leaves to make teas, poultices, and ointments to treat a wide range of ailments, including fevers, wounds, and skin conditions.16
Gastronomy
The common daisy may be used as a potherb. Young leaves can be eaten raw in salads or cooked, though the leaves become increasingly astringent with age. Flower buds and petals can be eaten raw in sandwiches, soups and salads. Common daisy may also be used as a tea and as a vitamin supplement.17