National Daisy Day 2021: Interesting Facts About The Popular Flower

National Daisy Day is observed on the 28th of January, and it's the perfect time to celebrate one of the world's most easily recognizable flowers.

Daisies are simple-looking flowers that can brighten up any garden or field. In fact, the flowers' simplicity may be why they are often associated with things like innocence, modesty and purity.

However, daisies are so much more than just a beautiful display. They are interesting and quite useful.

On National Daisy Day, let's have a look at some interesting daisy facts, courtesy of Better Homes & Gardens (BHG), National Today and Flower Garden Dream:

Daisies Can Be Found Worldwide

Although daisies are really native to Northern Europe and some regions of Asia, they can now be found in every continent in the world except Antarctica. They can be found in places you wouldn't think they would be in, such as Greenland and Iceland, National Today noted.

As BHG explained, this is because daisies are quite adaptable. They can survive in both dry and wet climates and thrive in shady or sunny areas.

You Can Eat Daisies

People may be used to daises being in gardens, fields and flower vases. The truth is that they belong to the dinner plate as well. That's because daisies are related to artichokes and are quite rich in all-important vitamin C, BHG noted.

In fresh daisies, the flowers, buds, petals and leaves are all edible, Flower Garden Dream said. Those who would like like to have a taste of daisies may try adding them to salads.

The Name "Daisy" Is From Its Daily Habit

The word daisy comes from the Old English phrase "Daes Eage," which means "day's eye." This is because daisies tend to open their petals in the morning and close them at night.

Some People Consider Daises As Weeds

Did you know that there are some people who consider daisies a nuisance? Since daisies are quite hardy and can grow in a variety of environments, they can be considered weeds if left uncontrolled, Flower Garden Dream said.

As SF Gate explained, the plants that sprout unintentionally and threaten the health of the other plants may be considered weeds. This is why people taking care of daisies should make sure to prune them to control their growth and keep them only where they intend.

Daisies Come In Many Colors

When people think of daisies, what usually comes to their mind are those with bright yellow centers and white petals. But did you know that daisies also come in a variety of colors?

The Marguerite Daisy, for instance, may come in pink, purple and yellow, Flower Garden Dream said.

Daisies Have Medicinal Purposes

Daisies certainly aren't just for pretty displays. They are also known for their medicinal properties. In fact, ancient Egyptians have been growing daisies for medicinal purposes as early as 2200 B.C., National Today said.

Herbal tea made from daisies has been used to relieve headaches, treat or soothe a cough and relieve indigestion.

Daisies bring joy and, apparently, they have many uses for people around the world as well. This is why, this National Daisy Day, don't forget to celebrate these simple but lovely flowers. You may do so by making a crown of daisies, picking some from your garden or simply buying a bunch of them from a local flower shop.