Erigeron macranthus

About

Erigeron macranthus is a perennial member of the Asteraceae belonging to the genus Erigeron. It produces the composite flower heads typical of the family and flowers in the UK from June to September. Plants carry their blooms on upright stems that sit above the foliage, offering a sustained summer display. Flowering is the plant's primary seasonal interest.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Erigeron speciosus

About the genus

Erigeron is a large genus of plants in the composite family (Asteraceae). It is placed in the tribe Astereae and is closely related to the Old World asters (Aster) and the true daisies (Bellis). The genus has a cosmopolitan distribution, and the highest diversity occurs in North America.

Wikipedia contributors, "Erigeron", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Erigeron

In the garden

Erigeron macranthus sits within the genus Erigeron and the daisy family Asteraceae, presenting the composite heads that define the group. In the UK its flowering season runs from June to September, so it contributes to midsummer and late-summer colour in planting schemes. Specific origin and size details for this taxon are not stated here; focus on its flowering habit when planning placement. Position the plant where its flowering can be seen: many Erigeron species do best in a free-draining medium and in a spot that receives good light for much of the day. Avoid sites that remain waterlogged through winter. A light mulch after growth has hardened off can protect roots without encouraging excess vigour. Cutting back spent stems after flowering tidies the plant and can help maintain a neat outline through autumn. Use Erigeron macranthus in mixed herbaceous borders to bridge the gap between early-summer and late-summer perennials, or introduce it to gravel beds and scree where drainage is sharp. It also integrates well with other summer-flowering perennials that have similar soil requirements. Expect its main contribution to be a sustained run of flowers across June to September, making it useful where a clear summer display is required.

More in the Erigeron genus

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