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Description
Erigeron Divergens, commonly known as Spreading Fleabane or Wand Fleabane, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to the western United States. It can grow up to 20 inches in height and has a spread of up to 2 feet. The plant blooms in the summer months, producing pink, lavender, or white flowers with yellow centers. The flowers are daisy-like and have long, thin petals that surround the center disc. This plant is a member of the aster family and is often grown for its attractive flowers and foliage.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Erigeron |
Appearance
Erigeron Divergens has a bushy, spreading growth habit with stems that are hairy and slightly sticky to the touch. The leaves are lance-shaped, toothed, and hairy, ranging in size from 1 to 3 inches long. The flowers grow in clusters at the ends of the stems and have a diameter of 1 inch. The petals are ray-like and can be pink, lavender, or white in color, with the center of the flower being yellow. The plant produces small, fluffy seed heads after the flowers have bloomed.
Care Guide
Erigeron Divergens is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:- Water: Water the plant regularly but do not overwater. The soil should be moist but not soggy.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: Erigeron Divergens prefers full sun to partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Erigeron Divergens is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, some common problems that can affect this plant include:- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves and stems. To prevent powdery mildew, make sure the plant has good air circulation and avoid watering the leaves.- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. To control spider mites, spray the plant with insecticidal soap.- Slugs and snails: These pests can eat holes in the leaves of the plant. To control slugs and snails, use a slug bait or handpick them off the plant.
Habitat
Erigeron Divergens is native to the western United States and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including meadows, forests, and rocky slopes. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Erigeron Divergens a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, the flowers of Erigeron Divergens are attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Can Erigeron Divergens be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Erigeron Divergens can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the spreading growth habit of the plant.
Q: How often should Erigeron Divergens be fertilized?
A: Erigeron Divergens should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Erigeron Divergens be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Erigeron Divergens can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the spring or early summer.
Related Plants
– Erigeron glabellus (Smooth Fleabane)- Erigeron speciosus (Aspen Fleabane)- Erigeron karvinskianus (Mexican Fleabane)
References
– “Erigeron Divergens.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 3, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c990.- “Erigeron Divergens.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 3, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/14710/erigeron-divergens/details.
