Eastern Daisy Fleabane
erigeron annuus
Also known as: ["Daisy Fleabane","Poor Robin's Plantain","Sweet William"]
Overview
A herbaceous annual or biennial plant native to North America, known for its delicate white or pinkish daisy-like flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Erigeron |
| Botanical Name: | Erigeron annuus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or border in a sunny location
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; tolerates average garden soil.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Deadhead flowers as they fade; light pruning can be done every 4–6 weeks during the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size or shape.
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 adequate 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; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in dormant periods
Water at the base to avoid foliage, ensure soil dries slightly between waterings, and avoid overwatering which can cause root rot.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not compacted; avoid heavy clay soils; maintain consistent moisture levels.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); can tolerate light frosts but may struggle in prolonged heat.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; use organic options like compost tea for gentle feeding; stop fertilizing when flowering slows.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; seeds can also be sown in early 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: Late 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 can speed up rooting; use a mild rooting hormone if desired.
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 mix, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity with a plastic bag or dome.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; cut spent flowers just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape and promote bushiness.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors; gloves (optional).
Checklist
Clean tools before use; prune in early morning; remove dead or diseased parts; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins; avoid repotting during flowering or extreme weather.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots gently; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring the root zone is moistened but not waterlogged; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth, reducing frequency in winter or drought; adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; mix in perlite or sand for better drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or flower bud drop in extreme heat or cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to dieback in severe cold without protection.
Solution: Mulch around the base to insulate roots; move potted plants to sheltered locations; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, flowers may fade quickly, and the plant may become stressed or dormant in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade, increase watering frequency, and use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check soil pH before fertilizing; use diluted fertilizer; avoid contact with foliage; water after application.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicErigeron annuus is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects on feline health from ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicErigeron annuus is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects on canine health from ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicErigeron annuus, 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 annuus toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water Erigeron annuus?
A: Water sparingly, as it is drought tolerant and prefers well-drained soil.
Q: Does Erigeron annuus attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
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
