A Plant That Deserves More Use

Dahlberg daisies (Thymophylla tenuiloba) are longtime performers in Texas landscaping, yet few gardeners use (or even know) them.

The plants grow to 8 to 12 inches tall and slightly wider, and they cover themselves with their nickel-sized, buttery yellow blooms all summer and fall.  Their leaves are tiny and threadlike, and they emit a strong, lemony aroma when brushed.

Since they’re native to South Central Texas southward into Mexico, Dahlberg daisies will stand up to neutral and alkaline soils, hot summer weather and brief spells of dry conditions.

Use Dahlberg daisies as border or patio container flowers where they can contrast against firebush, copper plants, purple fountaingrass or purpleheart.  You can set potted transplants out anytime the danger of frost has passed, but you can also plant them through the summer.  The biggest challenge will be in finding them in garden centers.  A few of Texas’ best nurseries regularly offer them, even during the summer, but most will not.  Call ahead, or plan on growing your own from seed next time around.