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Description
Erigeron Caespitosus, also known as Tufted Fleabane or Dwarf Alpine Fleabane, is a beautiful and hardy perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to the western United States and Canada, and can be found in alpine and subalpine regions, rocky slopes, meadows, and forests. The plant has a low-growing, compact habit and produces numerous small, daisy-like flowers with white or pink petals and yellow centers. Erigeron Caespitosus blooms from late spring to early summer and attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Erigeron |
Appearance
Erigeron Caespitosus has a distinctive appearance that makes it a favorite among gardeners and plant enthusiasts. The plant grows up to 6 inches tall and 12 inches wide, with a dense, tufted habit. Its leaves are small, narrow, and hairy, and form a basal rosette. The flowers are held on short stalks above the foliage and have a diameter of about 1 inch. They have white or pink petals with toothed edges and yellow centers that turn reddish-brown as they age. Erigeron Caespitosus is a beautiful addition to rock gardens, borders, and natural landscapes.
Care Guide
Erigeron Caespitosus is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to help you grow and maintain this beautiful perennial:- Water: Erigeron Caespitosus prefers well-drained soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the fall and winter.- Fertilization: Erigeron Caespitosus does not require heavy fertilization. You can apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring to encourage growth and blooming.- Soil: Erigeron Caespitosus grows best in well-drained, sandy, or rocky soil. The soil should be slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.0).- Sunlight: Erigeron Caespitosus prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can reduce blooming and lead to leggy growth.- Hardiness Zones: Erigeron Caespitosus is hardy to USDA zones 3-8. It can tolerate cold temperatures and frost.
Common Pests & Diseases
Erigeron Caespitosus is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot in humid conditions. To prevent these problems, make sure the plant has good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. If necessary, you can treat the plant with a fungicide. Erigeron Caespitosus can also attract aphids, thrips, and spider mites. You can control these pests by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Erigeron Caespitosus is native to high-altitude regions of the western United States and Canada, including Alaska, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming. It grows in alpine and subalpine habitats, including rocky slopes, meadows, and forests. Erigeron Caespitosus is adapted to harsh environmental conditions, such as cold temperatures, high winds, and low moisture.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Erigeron Caespitosus?
A: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the fall and winter.
Q: Can I grow Erigeron Caespitosus in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow Erigeron Caespitosus in a container. Make sure the container has drainage holes and use a well-drained potting mix.
Q: Does Erigeron Caespitosus require pruning?
A: Erigeron Caespitosus does not require pruning. However, you can deadhead the flowers after blooming to promote new growth and blooming.
Q: Is Erigeron Caespitosus deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Erigeron Caespitosus is deer-resistant. However, it can be eaten by rabbits and rodents.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that you may be interested in:- Erigeron Karvinskianus (Mexican Daisy)- Erigeron Glaucus (Seaside Daisy)- Erigeron Speciosus (Aspen Fleabane)- Erigeron Canadensis (Horseweed)- Erigeron Philadelphicus (Philadelphia Fleabane)
References
– “Erigeron Caespitosus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=283142.- “Erigeron Caespitosus.” North Carolina State University, https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/erigeron-caespitosus/.- “Erigeron Caespitosus.” PlantFiles, Dave’s Garden, https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/53116/.- “Tufted Fleabane (Erigeron Caespitosus).” Gardenia, www.gardenia.net/plant/erigeron-caespitosus-tufted-fleabane.
