Hairy Fleabane
conyza bonariensis
Also known as: ["Argentine Fleabane","Hairy Horseweed"]
Overview
An annual herbaceous plant with daisy-like flowers and hairy stems, often found in disturbed areas.
Benefits & Perks
["fast growing","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Conyza |
| Botanical Name: | Conyza bonariensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden beds, borders, or naturalized areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, especially after flowering or if plant becomes overgrown.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to full sun gradually; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure adequate airflow to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains in extreme heat; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in dormant periods
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and sand; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 60–85°F (15–29°C); adaptable but thrives in moderate warmth.
Avoid drafts; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
rarely required, if used then every 6–8 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing when plant is dormant.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings root easily in warm conditions.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), high humidity, indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss, or sandy soil.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; mature plant in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy stems to maintain shape.
Tools
Clean pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; remove spent flowers; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it’s not too large to avoid waterlogging.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; replace with fresh, well-draining soil; ensure pot has drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot only if roots are crowded or soil is depleted; typically every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure good drainage; water lightly 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 directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; allow excess to drain fully; water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is 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 premature flowering in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn purple or brown; risk of frost damage in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; use frost cloth in cold climates; avoid overwatering in cool conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may be reduced; growth may become sparse.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are susceptible to liver damage from the pyrrolizidine alkaloids present in Conyza bonariensis, particularly with repeated exposure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe pyrrolizidine alkaloids in Conyza bonariensis can lead to hepatic veno-occlusive disease in dogs if consumed regularly over time.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicConyza bonariensis contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can cause liver damage upon chronic ingestion. The toxic effects are primarily associated with prolonged exposure rather than acute toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Conyza bonariensis invasive?
A: Yes, it is considered an invasive weed in many regions due to its rapid growth and seed dispersal.
Q: How can I control Hairy Fleabane in my garden?
A: Hand-pulling or using herbicides can help control its spread.
Q: Does Hairy Fleabane have any medicinal uses?
A: There is limited evidence of traditional medicinal use, but it is not commonly recognized for this purpose.
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
