Alpine Fleabane
erigeron alpinus
Also known as: ["Alpine Daisy","Rocky Mountain Fleabane"]
Overview
A low-growing perennial herb native to alpine regions, known for its daisy-like flowers and hardy nature.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Erigeron |
| Botanical Name: | Erigeron alpinus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or sunny, well-drained borders
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, rocky, or sandy soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; as needed to remove dead or damaged growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless rejuvenating.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot regions; ensure good air circulation.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Morning sun is ideal; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer; rotate pot for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid overwatering; ensure good drainage.
Soil
well-drained, rocky, slightly alkaline soil
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with grit if needed.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F/10–21°C); prefers cooler summers.
Avoid sudden temperature swings; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize after watering; stop in fall/winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Apply hormone (if used).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist.
- Provide warmth and humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F/18–24°C), high humidity, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix like cactus soil with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 3–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead spent flowers; trim back straggly stems to a healthy bud.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape.
Tools
Clean pruners or scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Clean tools; deadhead regularly; trim leggy growth; avoid cutting into old wood.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure good drainage.
Method
Use fresh well-draining soil; gently tease apart roots; place in a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; water before repotting; minimize root disturbance.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce winter watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without saturating the soil; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry between waterings; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, sand, or gravel to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may enter dormancy; roots can freeze in poorly insulated pots.
Solution: Insulate pots; move to a sheltered location; avoid overwatering in cold.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, reduced flowering, or premature dormancy.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity; water early in the day.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicErigeron alpinus is not considered toxic to cats. It does not produce any known harmful effects when ingested by felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicErigeron alpinus is not considered toxic to dogs. It does not produce any known harmful effects when ingested by canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicErigeron alpinus is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Erigeron alpinus be watered?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings, especially in alpine conditions.
Q: Does Erigeron alpinus attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Can Erigeron alpinus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it thrives in well-drained containers, particularly in rock gardens or alpine displays.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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