Montanoa bipinnatifida and other species
The Mexican Tree Daisy is a tall growing plant with daisy like flowers and it comes from central America. White flowers on a tall shrub to around 3 – 5 metres in height this is a fascinating plant for medium to large gardens.
As it it has natural height it can be grown toward the rear of the garden border where the large clusters of white flowers add colour in autumn.
The flowers are followed by colourful bracts.
How to grow the Mexican Tree Daisy – Basic Care
Best grown in a sheltered position as the stems of the plant are not strong and are susceptible to wind damage.
Plant is a sunny position in a well drained soil and it will require very little care other than cutting back after flowering. We suggest pruning back by at least 50% each year as this will help maintain a bushy growth habit.
Pruning
Many gardeners choose to prune Montanoa bipinnatifida back hard in spring after flowering. This not only maintains a bushy growth habit but will also encourage better flower formation the following winter.
You can prune right back just above ground level if needed.
You can also use these plants to provide cut flowers in the winter months, an added bonus.
Propagation
These are a very easy plant to propagate from cuttings taken after flowering. They strike very easily and should present no problems fo most gardeners.
You can also propagate from seed which is also very easy.
Landscaping Uses
Mexican Tree Daisy is best used where its height can be appreciated.
Suitable applications include:
- Rear of mixed shrub borders.
- Cottage gardens.
- Informal gardens.
- Wildlife-friendly plantings.
- Screening and background planting.
- Large feature shrub.
- Winter cut flower garden.
The combination of height, rapid growth and winter flowering makes it particularly useful for adding colour at a time when many other shrubs have finished flowering.
This is one of the largest bushes with daisy like flowers and as such is a standout in many garden styles.
Summary Information
- Botanical Name – Montanoa bipinnatifida
- Common Names -Mexican Tree daisy
- Climate – Temperate to Sub Tropical Zones
- Position – Full Sun
- Humus rich and well drained.
- Height – To 4m (12ft)
- Spread – To a width of 2 – 3 m
- Flowers – White daisy like
- Flowering Time – Winter
- Foliage – Evergreen and lanceolate in form.
- Drought Tolerance – Good once established.
- Frost Tolerance – Poor frost tolerance.
Montanoa Species and Varieties Compared
Several species and forms of Montanoa are grown in gardens. While they are all closely related, there are some notable differences.
Montanoa bipinnatifida – Mexican Tree Daisy
The most commonly grown species and generally regarded as the best garden performer.
It produces large clusters of white daisy flowers from late autumn into winter on a fast-growing shrub that can reach 5 metres or more in favourable conditions.
This is the species most often seen in Australian gardens and is sometimes known as the Anzac Flower because it is often flowering around Anzac Day in cooler regions.
Montanoa grandiflora – Large Flowered Tree Daisy
Very similar in appearance to Montanoa bipinnatifida but generally recognised by its larger flower heads.
Growth habit and cultivation requirements are much the same, making it an excellent alternative where available.
For most gardeners the differences are subtle and the two species are often confused.
Montanoa bipinnatifida ‘Double Form’ – Pom Pom Tree
This popular garden form produces fully double flowers rather than the typical daisy-like blooms.
The flower heads resemble white pom poms and create a particularly striking display.
The growth habit and care requirements are essentially identical to the standard species, however the flowers have a very different appearance and are especially valued for cutting.
Montanoa hibiscifolia
A closely related Central American species recognised by its deeply lobed foliage and fragrant white flowers.
It is a vigorous grower and has become invasive in some warmer regions around the world.
While attractive in flower, gardeners should consider its potential to self-seed before planting.
Montanoa leucantha var. arborescens
Less commonly grown but notable for its profuse clusters of white flowers and distinctive cherry-scented foliage.
The scented leaves add another dimension to the garden and make this an interesting choice for collectors of unusual shrubs.