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Description
Erigeron Elatior, commonly known as the Showy Fleabane or Mexican Fleabane, is a beautiful wildflower native to North America. This perennial plant belongs to the Asteraceae family and is known for its daisy-like flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer. Erigeron Elatior can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, making it an excellent choice for borders and mass plantings.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Erigeron |
Appearance
Erigeron Elatior has a clumping growth habit and produces many stems that are covered with small, narrow leaves. The leaves are hairy and can grow up to 6 inches long. The flowers of this plant are showy and can be up to 2 inches in diameter. They have white petals that surround a yellow center disk. Erigeron Elatior is a great addition to any garden and can attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Care Guide
Erigeron Elatior is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping your Showy Fleabane healthy and happy:- Water: This plant prefers well-draining soil and does not like to be waterlogged. Water it deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the winter months.- Fertilization: Erigeron Elatior does not require a lot of fertilizer, but you can feed it with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once a year in the spring.- Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy, amend it with compost or sand to improve drainage.- Sunlight: Erigeron Elatior prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. Make sure it gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Erigeron Elatior is generally pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and rust in humid conditions. To prevent these diseases, make sure the plant has good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Aphids and spider mites can occasionally infest this plant, but they can be easily controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Erigeron Elatior is native to North America and can be found growing in fields, meadows, and open woods. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun but can tolerate some shade. This plant is a great choice for naturalizing and can attract pollinators to your garden.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Erigeron Elatior a good cut flower?
A: Yes, the flowers of this plant make great cut flowers and can last up to a week in a vase.
Q: How often should I divide Erigeron Elatior?
A: This plant does not need to be divided often, but you can divide it every 3-4 years in the spring if it becomes overcrowded.
Q: Can Erigeron Elatior tolerate drought?
A: Yes, this plant is drought-tolerant once established, but it prefers regular watering during the growing season.
Q: How can I propagate Erigeron Elatior?
A: You can propagate this plant by division or by taking stem cuttings in the spring or early summer.
Related Plants
– Erigeron Karvinskianus- Erigeron Speciosus- Erigeron Glaucus- Erigeron Annus- Erigeron Canadensis
References
– USDA Plants Database: Erigeron Elatior. (n.d.). Retrieved May 10, 2021, from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?id=EREL- Missouri Botanical Garden: Erigeron Elatior. (n.d.). Retrieved May 10, 2021, from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=278333&isprofile=0&- North Carolina State University Extension: Erigeron Elatior. (n.d.). Retrieved May 10, 2021, from https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/all/erigeron-elatior/
