Daisy fleabane
erigeron strigosus
Also known as: ["Dwarf fleabane","Common fleabane"]
Overview
A herbaceous annual or biennial plant native to North America, known for its daisy-like flowers with white petals and yellow centers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Erigeron |
| Botanical Name: | Erigeron strigosus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in open, sunny area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; tolerates poor soils but thrives with some enrichment.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Deadhead flowers as they fade; prune lightly after flowering; major pruning in late winter or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not compacted; use mulch to retain moisture; test pH if issues arise.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); can tolerate light frosts but may struggle in prolonged heat.
Monitor temperature extremes; adjust watering and light exposure accordingly; protect from sudden temperature shifts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize sparingly to prevent leggy growth; apply after watering to avoid root burn; stop fertilizing before flowering to promote blooms.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; seeds can also be sown directly in spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; plants may be ready to transplant in 8–12 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools; make cuts just above a leaf node or bud; remove dead or damaged stems.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape; cut back after flowering to promote compact growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, bypass cutters, gloves.
Checklist
Clean tools before use; prune dead or diseased parts; remove spent flowers; shape as needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust for weather conditions.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; apply until water begins to drain from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage to reduce disease risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth; reduce frequency in winter to every 2–3 weeks; adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth and cause leaf discoloration; prolonged freezing may damage tender tissues.
Solution: Provide frost protection with mulch or row covers; avoid overwatering in cold conditions; move potted plants to a sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, flower drop, and reduced vigor; may go dormant in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid over-fertilization; water before and after feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply every 4–6 weeks during active growth; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicErigeron strigosus is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicErigeron strigosus is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicErigeron strigosus, commonly known as daisy fleabane, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no significant toxic effects or physiological impacts reported from ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Erigeron strigosus toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water Erigeron strigosus?
A: It is drought tolerant and requires minimal watering once established.
Q: Does Erigeron strigosus attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
