Stemless Townsend Daisy

Townsendia exscapa

Native to:
Canada, Mexico, United States

📍 View on iNaturalist →

Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Asteraceae
Genus:
Townsendia
Species:
Townsendia exscapa
USDA Symbol:
TOEX2

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Forb/herb
Height:
8 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
High
Bloom Months:
apr,may,jun
Bloom Colors:
white, pink, lavender

Wildlife Benefits

Bees:
★☆☆☆☆ Documented bee visitation (GBIF)
Butterflies & Moths:
★☆☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
bees, butterflies
Deer Resistant:
Yes

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
sandy, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil
pH:
6.0 - 8.0 (neutral to slightly alkaline)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
Prefers open, exposed sites with minimal competition.

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
Cold/moist stratification required — 30–90 days
Germination Time:
14–30 days
Notes:
Requires light for germination; cold stratification improves germination rates.

The above propagation data sourced from Claude AI

Pre-treatment: Cold-moist stratification for 30 days at 1–5°C (34–41°F).

Source: Claude AI

ORGHPS Germination Guide: Sow @ 20C. Germinates within 3 months.

Source: Ontario Rock Garden & Hardy Plant Society