Bellis perennis is a common European species of daisy, known for its yellow-centered white flowers. Its scientific name is pronounced "BEL-iss puh-REN-iss," with the stress on the first syllable of each word. In the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), this would be represented as /ˈbɛl ɪs pəˈrɛn ɪs/. The name "Bellis" derives from the Latin word for "pretty," reflecting the flower's attractive appearance, while "perennis" means perennial, indicating its long-lived nature.
Bellis perennis, commonly known as the daisy, is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the asteraceae family. This species is native to Europe but has been naturalized in various parts of the world due to its popularity as an ornamental plant. The name "Bellis perennis" is derived from Latin, where "bellis" means beautiful and "perennis" signifies perennial, hinting at the enduring beauty of this plant.
The daisy is characterized by its small, composite flower, consisting of numerous white, downward-facing ray florets surrounding a central yellow disk floret. The flower typically rises on a solitary stem from a rosette of spoon-shaped leaves, which are hairy and dark green in color. The daisy has a relatively short height, generally reaching between 3 and 6 inches.
This plant prefers sunny or partially shaded areas with well-drained soil and is often found in meadows, lawns, and gardens. Bellis perennis blooms from early spring to late summer, producing an abundance of flowers that attract bees and butterflies for pollination.
In addition to its aesthetic appeal, the daisy holds cultural significance and is often associated with innocence, purity, and love. It has been used in traditional medicine for various purposes, including treating respiratory ailments, digestive disorders, and skin conditions.
Overall, Bellis perennis, or the daisy, is a beloved perennial plant that charms with its delicate, white flowers and showcases its endurance throughout the seasons.
The word Bellis Perennis is of Latin origin. Bellis means pretty or beautiful, while perennis means everlasting or perennial.