The cultivation of Argyranthemum frutescens L. in the "Alexandru Ciubotaru" National botanical garden (Institute) and prospects for its development

Argyranthemum frutescens (L.) Sch.Bip. (clade Magnoliophyta, class Magnoliopsida, order Asterales, family Asteraceae, genus Argyranthemum Webb ex Sch. Bip) is commonly named Paris daisy, marguerite or marguerite daisy. The species was formerly considered part of the genus Chrysanthemum, but now it is placed in an independent genus – Argyranthemum, which includes 23 species. The research was carried out in the greenhouse and on the experimental site of the Floriculture Laboratory of the “Alexandru Ciubotaru” National Botanical Garden (Institute). The article presents the results of studying the ontogenetic stages and biological characteristics of various cultivars of Argyranthemum frutescens L. Eight cultivars of Argyranthemum frutescens L. served as research subjects (White Swan, AngelicTMLemon, AngelicTMMagentа, Neptun, Pink Delight, Perfection pink, Burgundy, Giant Pink ). In accordance with the methodology, the study on cultivars was carried out taking into account the shape of the bush, the density of the foliage, the height and habit of the bush, the size and colour of the leaves, the shape, size, type and colour of inflorescences. The regenerative abilities and the capacity to produce shoots of marguerite daisy were studied. The optimal time for propagation, the length and intensity of the flowering phase of the introduced cultivars have been determined. The optimal conditions for their successful propagation and cultivation in Moldova have been established. On the basis of observations, the economic value and the best uses of marguerite daisy in landscape design have been determined. According to the results of the study on cultivars, their characteristics have been determined. It has been found that the main stages of ontogenesis in Argyranthemum frutescens L. are not clearly defined. The onset of a certain stage of development and its duration depends on climatic conditions. Some agricultural techniques for growing Argyranthemum frutescens L. under the given soil and climatic conditions have been developed.