Round, attractive globe daisies are also known as Globularia. These flowering plants feature tightly-packed, ball-like clusters of powder blue flowers atop small, erect stems. The genus belongs to the Plantaginaceae family and consists of 22 different species.
Globe daisies are evergreen herbs. They feature softly colored purple, blue, pink, or white tufted flowers that bloom in the summer. The subshrubs' small, dense leaves can range from half an inch to 4 inches(1 to 10 centimeters) in length, while the whole plants may grow up to 14 inches (35 centimeters) high. As the flowers grow and widen, a single plant can spread across 15 inches (38 centimeters) of land.
Flowers can be expected to bloom for several weeks. Depending on the individual species, some variations in plant color and shape may occur. Some species, such as the Globularia meridionalis and the Globularia punctata, feature spoon-shaped leaves. The tiny creeper, or Globularia repens, is a smaller version of the genus, and features narrow, teardrop-shaped leaves.
Many people enjoy planting globe daisies on their lawns to create an eye-catching effect of a bed of flowers. Since the plants are small but vivid, their aesthetically pleasing color and simple structure make them a natural choice for carpeting a garden. Of these, Globularia cordifolia and Globularia punctata are the most popular. In the United States, the flowers grow best in zones five through ten.
Globularia flowers are native to the Balkan Peninsula, Africa, Europe, and southwest Asia, particularly in dry grassland areas. The mat-forming herbs grow best in full to partial sunlight. Well-drained soil is the best medium for planting this flower. They also grow well in rock gardens. When planting, the seeds and young shoots should be kept at room temperature until fully established.
Rocky landscaping works very well with this ornamental plant. A scree bed of various types of gravel and rocks that features Globularia plants can create a charming focal point in a garden. Considered very easy to grow, these plants can be left alone in such configurations, and still grow and thrive. Very little watering, if any, is required for the genus. Hardy and strong, these herbs are a good choice for fledgling gardeners or those who tend to have bad luck with plants in general.
Several species enjoy globe daisies as a food source. Moths and butterflies flock to the plants as larvae. Herbalists also use the plant for various remedies. The genus is known for its laxative properties.
