Erigeron speciosus (showy fleabane) — perennial herb

Overview

Erigeron speciosus is a perennial herb in the genus Erigeron, part of the Asteraceae family. Erigeron speciosus grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and neutral and slightly acidic pH. Suggested uses include wildflower gardens, meadow plantings and rock gardens. It is native to Alberta, Montana, Washington, New Mexico, Idaho, South Dakota, Colorado and Nevada.

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 speciosus (showy fleabane) is a perennial herb in the Asteraceae native to parts of western North America, including Alberta, Montana, Washington, New Mexico, Idaho, South Dakota, Colorado and Nevada. It flowers from June to September and produces open, daisy-like heads that sit above the foliage through much of summer. For cultivation choose a position in full sun or partial shade on a free-draining loamy or sandy soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. Keep plants evenly moist while they establish; once settled they will tolerate drier conditions. Avoid heavy, waterlogged ground since the species prefers soils that shed excess water. Plant in groups to create a naturalised effect and allow air to circulate around stems to reduce damp-related issues in cooler, shaded sites. Showy fleabane suits wildflower gardens, meadow plantings and rock gardens where well-drained soils predominate. Its June to September flowering period makes it valuable for extending the summer colour of meadow mixes and for placing at the edge of borders so the heads remain visible as surrounding perennials grow taller.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Erigeron

Sunlight: full sun, partial shade
Soil type: well-drained, loamy, sandy
Soil pH: neutral, slightly acidic
Soil moisture: moist,dry tolerant

Plant details

Erigeron speciosus size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: perennial herb
Suggested uses: wildflower gardens, meadow plantings, rock gardens
Native to: Alberta, Montana, Washington, New Mexico, Idaho, South Dakota, Colorado, Nevada

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Erigeron speciosus

Cultivation: Prefers well-drained soil and moderate watering; tolerates drought once established.
Pruning: Deadhead spent flowers to encourage reblooming; cut back in late fall or early spring.
Propagation: seed,division

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Erigeron speciosus?

Prefers well-drained soil and moderate watering; tolerates drought once established.

Where is the best place to plant Erigeron speciosus?

Erigeron speciosus prefers full sun and partial shade.

What soil does Erigeron speciosus need?

Erigeron speciosus is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including well-drained, loamy and sandy. It prefers neutral and slightly acidic soil. Aim for soil that stays moist to dry tolerant.

How do I prune Erigeron speciosus?

Deadhead spent flowers to encourage reblooming; cut back in late fall or early spring.