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Description
Erigeron Utahensis is a native plant of the western United States, found in high-elevation meadows and rocky slopes. It is also known as Utah Fleabane and Utah Erigeron. This perennial herb is a member of the Asteraceae family and has a light green stem with small leaves. Its flowers are daisy-like, with white or pink petals and a yellow center.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Erigeron |
Appearance
Erigeron Utahensis can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. Its stem is slender and hairy, with small leaves that are narrow and pointed. Its flowers are daisy-like, with white or pink petals and a yellow center. It blooms from May to August and sometimes September. The plant’s roots are shallow and fibrous, making it easy to transplant.
Care Guide
Erigeron Utahensis is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. It is drought-tolerant and can grow in a variety of soils, including sandy, loamy, or rocky soils. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun exposure.
Water: Water the plant regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep root system. Afterward, water only when the soil is dry.
Fertilization: Erigeron Utahensis does not require fertilization. However, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer once a year in the spring.
Soil: The plant can grow in a variety of soils, but it prefers well-drained soil. It can tolerate some alkalinity and acidity in the soil.
Sunlight: Erigeron Utahensis requires full sun exposure, which means at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in hardiness zones 4 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Erigeron Utahensis is generally disease and pest-free. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, which is a fungal disease that causes a white powder-like substance on the leaves. To prevent powdery mildew, avoid overhead watering and ensure good air circulation. The plant can also be infested by spider mites, which are tiny insects that suck the sap from the leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control spider mites.
Habitat
Erigeron Utahensis is native to the western United States, including Utah, Colorado, Wyoming, and Montana. It grows in high-elevation meadows, rocky slopes, and open woods. The plant can also be found in disturbed areas, such as roadsides and abandoned fields.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Erigeron Utahensis poisonous?
A: No, Erigeron Utahensis is not poisonous to humans or animals. However, it is not recommended to consume it.
Q: Can Erigeron Utahensis attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Erigeron Utahensis attracts pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and moths.
Q: Can Erigeron Utahensis survive in cold climates?
A: Yes, Erigeron Utahensis can survive in cold climates as low as hardiness zone 4.
Q: Can Erigeron Utahensis be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Erigeron Utahensis can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage and the plant receives full sun exposure.
Related Plants
- Erigeron aureus
- Erigeron bellidiastrum
- Erigeron compositus
- Erigeron divergens
- Erigeron glabellus
References
- “Erigeron Utahensis.” Utah State University Extension, 2021. https://extension.usu.edu/rangeplants/forb/herbs/utahfleabane
- “Erigeron Utahensis.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=ERUT2
- “Erigeron Utahensis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287400&isprofile=0&
