Bellis | |
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Daisy (Bellis perennis) | |
Scientific classification | |
Kingdom: | Plantae |
(unranked): | Angiosperms |
(unranked): | Eudicots |
(unranked): | Asterids |
Order: | Asterales |
Family: | Asteraceae |
Subfamily: | Asteroideae |
Tribe: | Astereae |
Genus: |
Bellis L. |
Type species | |
Bellis perennis L. |
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Synonyms | |
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Bellis is a genus of flowering plants in the sunflower family.
The group is native to Europe, the Mediterranean and northern Africa. One species has been introduced into North America and others into other parts of the world. The genus includes the familiar common daisy Bellis perennis.
Bellis species are mostly perennials, and grow from 5–20 cm (2–8 in) tall. They have simple erect stems, and most species have basal leaves. They have radiate flower heads that are produced one per stem.
Bellis (English Daisy) is one of the flowers mentioned by Ophelia in Shakespeare's play Hamlet. It is in this context connected with innocence.
Annual Daisy (Bellis annua)
Southern Daisy (Bellis sylvestris)
English Daisy (Bellis perennis)