This photo is up close and personal to the Shasta Daisy 'Becky' (Leucanthemum 'Becky') the 2003 Perennial of the Year. You probably have seen them in any gardening magazine you have looked at in the last couple years.
These are planted in full day sun and are looking outstanding. Sometimes Shasta Daisies would like a little shade in the Texas Summers. 'Becky' is going strong.
This little group was just planted this past spring. (The fencing on the ground to the left is to protect the recent seeds planted from digging armadillos.)
"What is that?" you ask. A den of ant lions. (Or would that be a "pride"?) Also known as doodlebugs, their sandy crater-like pits are easy to see during the long periods between rains.
During the larval stage, the doodlebug preys on ants as well as any other unsuspecting insect that slides into the center. I know this sounds grim but they are fun to watch as they pitch sand out and clear their lair. The adult becomes a winged insect looking similar to a damsel fly but has a nocturnal habitat. (I have been out in the heat too long, sorry folks.)
