Leucanthemum vulgare is a perennial plant with long slender stalks and white daisy flowers with yellow centers in spring and autumn. It grows quite densely due to stems, which touch the ground often, take root and form new plants. Dispersal by seed. Spread by machinery especially slashing and animals.
Manual control
Small infestations can be hand weeded. Larger areas can be controlled by cultivation (early flowering stage- Sept). Cultivation should be to at least 15cm exposing and killing root system. Shallower cultivation over 2 or 3 years kills seedlings and regrowth from root pieces. Grazing in autumn and winter can aid control. Improve pastures to out compete the weed.
From SGLN’s 2017 weed guide.
Herbicides must be applied at the appropriate rate as specified on the label and all safety precautions followed. If chemical control is necessary near drainage lines or streams, use extreme caution as the effects on aquatic life can be devastating even in minute amounts. Always seek expert advice.
Chemical control notes from SGLN’s 2017 weed guide
Can be controlled with various registered chemicals available e.g Kamba 500,Tordon 75D, Amitrole T (non-selective). Apply early flowering stage. Always check the herbicide label before use.
These notes are from 2017, and some information, particularly herbicide information, may be out of date. Please ask local suppliers and do your own research in selecting herbicides if choosing chemical control.
Family, origin, type, plant instead, control methods and the note above are from SGLN’s pocket guide Common weeds of South Gippsland (2026).
