Mexican Fleabane, Sumatran Fleabane
erigeron sumatrensis
Also known as: ["Mexican Fleabane","Sumatran Fleabane","Big Fleabane"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with daisy-like flowers, native to South America but widely naturalized elsewhere.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Erigeron |
| Botanical Name: | Erigeron sumatrensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: open garden beds or containers in sunny areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- 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; can tolerate sandy soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; can be lightly pruned throughout the growing season to shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown, but avoid heavy pruning in late autumn o
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer blooms.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent sunburn or fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant regularly for even growth; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; use mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature
Prefers warm to hot conditions (65–85°F or 18–29°C); can tolerate brief periods of cooler temperatures but thrives in warmth.
Monitor temperature fluctuations; adjust watering based on heat; protect from frost.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; stop feeding in late autumn; use a low-nitrogen formula for flowering plants.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), humid environment with indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead spent flowers; trim leggy stems to just above a leaf node; shape as needed with clean cuts.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to promote reblooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged growth first; make clean cuts; dispose of pruned material away from the plant.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; 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 pot; beneficial for rejuvenation and fresh soil.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in shade for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; 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 and fungal growth; allow excess water to drain away completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth; reduce frequency in winter to every 2–3 weeks, allowing soil to dry between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and aerated.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves) in cold stress; wilting or leaf drop in heat stress; stunted growth in extreme conditions.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause root damage; prolonged cold can lead to plant death.
Solution: Move potted plants indoors during frost; use frost cloth for in-ground plants; ensure good drainage to prevent root rot in cold, wet soil.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or flower drop; may lead to dehydration if water needs are not met.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in extreme heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer label for dilution ratio; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to pyrrolizidine alkaloids found in Erigeron sumatrensis, which can cause acute liver toxicity and failure. Even small amounts can be harmful.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe pyrrolizidine alkaloids in Erigeron sumatrensis are toxic to dogs, causing liver damage and potential failure. Chronic exposure can lead to severe health complications.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicErigeron sumatrensis contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which are hepatotoxic and can cause liver damage upon chronic ingestion. These compounds interfere with liver cell regeneration and can lead to veno-occlusive disease.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Erigeron sumatrensis toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water Erigeron sumatrensis?
A: Water sparingly, as it is drought-tolerant and prefers well-drained soil.
Q: Does Erigeron sumatrensis 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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