Alpine Fleabane
erigeron uniflorus
Also known as: ["Alpine Daisy","One-flowered Fleabane"]
Overview
A small, alpine perennial herb with daisy-like flowers, native to high-altitude regions.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","cold hardy","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Erigeron |
| Botanical Name: | Erigeron uniflorus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or raised beds with excellent drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; as needed to remove dead or damaged growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on deadheading and shaping.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter direct sun; avoid placing in dark corners.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogging; prioritize soil moisture over frequent light watering.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and sand; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (50–65°F or 10–18°C); prefers cooler conditions, especially during dormancy.
Monitor temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; maintain consistent cool conditions for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize only when actively growing; stop in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Apply rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant once rooted.
Best Time: Early spring or after flowering when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix (e.g., peat-based with perlite or sand).
Hormone
Optional, but can help with root initiation.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pots within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or use clean shears for selective trimming.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Use clean tools; remove dead flowers; trim leggy stems; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots gently; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry between waterings; increase frequency in active growth periods (spring/summer) and reduce in dormancy (fall/winter).
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in excessive heat; yellowing or browning leaves in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 40°F (4°C).
Solution: Provide winter protection (e.g., mulch); move potted plants indoors; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Causes wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering; may lead to dehydration and stress.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; apply during growing season; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicErigeron uniflorus is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicErigeron uniflorus is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicErigeron uniflorus is not known to possess significant toxic properties for humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and incidental ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Erigeron uniflorus suitable for beginners?
A: No, it requires specific alpine conditions and is best suited for experienced gardeners.
Q: Does Erigeron uniflorus attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Can Erigeron uniflorus be grown indoors?
A: It is primarily an outdoor plant due to its alpine nature and specific growing requirements.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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