California Aster
erigeron foliosus
Also known as: ["California Fleabane","Foothill Daisy"]
Overview
A perennial wildflower native to California, known for its daisy-like flowers and fern-like foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Erigeron |
| Botanical Name: | Erigeron foliosus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, slopes, or containers in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning after flowering; more extensive pruning in late winter or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, depending on desired shape and vigor.
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 if moving from shade. Protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates to prevent scorching. Outdoor placement is ideal, but ensure adequate light indoors if grown as a houseplant.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; supplement with grow lights if needed.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; use raised beds or containers for better drainage; amend with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates mild frosts but may struggle in extreme heat.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent temperatures during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing during dormancy; use a low-nitrogen formula for flowering plants.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid until rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture until roots develop.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand for cuttings; moist, loose soil for division.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates for stem cuttings.
Timeline
Stem cuttings may root in 2–4 weeks; division can establish in 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems for cuttings; maintain high humidity to prevent wilting; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead spent flowers; trim leggy stems to promote branching; cut back overgrown plants to 1/3 of their size.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to prolong blooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, clean scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; remove spent flowers; shape the plant as needed; clean up debris afterward.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Erigeron foliosus prefers slightly crowded roots but benefits from fresh soil.
Checklist
Choose a new pot with drainage holes; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water and place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water until it drains from the bottom, but avoid waterlogging. Early morning watering is ideal to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or wilting in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf discoloration or dieback if below freezing.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, flower drop, and reduced vigor.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer label for dilution rates; apply during active growth; avoid contact with leaves; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicErigeron foliosus is not toxic to cats. The plant does not produce any known toxins that would cause harm to felines upon ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicErigeron foliosus is not toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in canines after ingestion of this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicErigeron foliosus, commonly known as foothill fleabane, is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested in typical amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Erigeron foliosus toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water Erigeron foliosus?
A: Water sparingly, as it is drought-tolerant and prefers well-drained soil.
Q: Does Erigeron foliosus attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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