Coulter's Fleabane
erigeron coulteri
Also known as: ["Coulter's Daisy","Coulter's Aster"]
Overview
A perennial wildflower native to North America, known for its daisy-like flowers with numerous slender ray florets.
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 coulteri |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, borders, or open sunny areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°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. Avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Deadhead spent flowers throughout the growing season; perform a light shaping prune in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate. Avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size or rejuvenate older plants.
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 full sun if moved from shade. Protect from intense midday sun in hot climates to prevent scorching. Outdoor placement is ideal, but ensure adequate light if grown indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; monitor for signs of sunburn or etiolation.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep roots; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid overwatering; use a soil mix with good aeration.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates cooler nights but avoids extreme heat or frost.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; maintain consistent moderate temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing when blooms appear to avoid leggy growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps. 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 moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant once rooted.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), humid, and bright but indirect light. Protect from direct sun and drafts.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus/succulent potting soil.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; plants may take 2–3 months to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting bottle, plastic wrap or propagation dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide gentle bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut spent flower stalks at the base; trim leggy stems to just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to prolong blooming.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or damaged growth; remove spent flowers; shape as needed; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter) than the current one.
Method
Remove the plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Potted plants may need repotting more frequently.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Apply until water drains from the bottom, then stop to prevent waterlogging. Water early in the morning 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 or drought. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
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 or wilting in excessive heat; stunted growth or bud drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf damage or dieback, especially if prolonged or coupled with wet soil.
Solution: Provide frost protection with mulch or row covers; ensure well-drained soil to prevent root rot; move potted plants indoors if temperatures drop below freezing.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering, especially if combined with drought.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in hot climates; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; improve air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicErigeron coulteri is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects associated with ingestion of this plant by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicErigeron coulteri is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects associated with ingestion of this plant by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicErigeron coulteri is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in typical quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Erigeron coulteri be watered?
A: Water sparingly, as it is drought-tolerant and prefers well-drained soil.
Q: Does Coulter's Fleabane attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Is Erigeron coulteri toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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