Argentine Fleabane
erigeron bonariensis
Also known as: ["Argentine Fleabane","South American Fleabane"]
Overview
A herbaceous annual or biennial plant with daisy-like flowers, native to South America but naturalized in many regions.
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 bonariensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a sunny to partially shaded area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter; tolerates poor soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Deadhead flowers as they fade; light pruning in early spring if needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless rejuvenating an overgrown plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); 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 adequate airflow to prevent mildew.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal diseases.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use raised beds in heavy soils; avoid overwatering; amend with organic matter for nutrients.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F/15–24°C); can tolerate heat but may struggle below 50°F (10°C).
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize sparingly to avoid leggy growth; apply after watering to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing in fall.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or self-seeding; easily propagated from seeds dispersed by wind.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can root in water initially.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting; use a mild rooting hormone if desired.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; mature plants in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain high humidity.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip spent flowers just above a leaf node; trim stems to shape the plant.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy stems to maintain compact growth.
Tools
Clean pruning shears or scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Clean tools; deadhead regularly; trim selectively for shape.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, focusing on the root zone; water until it drains from the bottom; avoid overhead watering to reduce disease risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or flower drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; move potted plants indoors during freezes; use mulch to insulate roots.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may decrease in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicErigeron bonariensis is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented adverse effects or physiological impacts when ingested by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicErigeron bonariensis is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented adverse effects or physiological impacts when ingested by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicErigeron bonariensis is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Erigeron bonariensis invasive?
A: Yes, it can be considered invasive in some regions due to its rapid spread.
Q: Does this plant require much care?
A: No, it is very low maintenance and thrives in poor soils.
Q: Does it attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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