Chrysanthemum coronarium (Glebionis coronaria)
Chrysanthemum coronarium, now classified as Glebionis coronaria, is the edible crown daisy grown as a quick annual. It stands out for tender, aromatic greens and bright spring to summer daisies. It performs best in full sun and well‑drained soil. Plants grow fast from seed and can be resown for a steady harvest. In North America it is grown as an annual in all USDA zones.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: annual chrysanthemum (now Glebionis)
- Height × spread: 12–36 in (30–90 cm) × 8–18 in (20–45 cm)
- Bloom window: spring to summer
- Color & flower form: yellow or yellow‑and‑white single daisies
- Fragrance: 1 trace
- USDA hardiness: grown as annual in all zones
- Breeder / Year / Origin: unknown
- Pet safety: unknown
How it differs
- True annual with spring to summer bloom rather than fall.
- Primarily grown for edible greens.
- Not intended for long‑term perennial borders.
- May self‑seed where happy.
Strengths
- Fast, easy crop from seed.
- Useful in edible beds and mixed borders.
- Tolerates a range of soils in full sun.
Care in one minute
- Sow in full sun and well‑drained soil in spring.
- Keep evenly moist for tender leaves.
- Harvest young greens; deadhead to limit self‑seeding or allow a light reseed.
- Sow successionally every few weeks for a steady supply.
Watch‑outs
- Bolts and becomes bitter in heat or drought.
- Leaves toughen if harvest is delayed.
- Self‑seeding can be vigorous.
Best uses (tags)
edible gardens, borders, pollinators, seasonal fillers, containers
Provenance note
Mediterranean native; synonym Chrysanthemum coronarium; widely grown in Asian cuisines as shungiku or tong hao.
References
- Kew – Plants of the World Online: Chrysanthemum coronarium (syn. of Glebionis coronaria)
- UF/IFAS Extension – Tong Hao (Glebionis coronaria) vegetable profile
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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