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Description
Erigeron Speciosus, commonly known as Showy Fleabane or Aspen Fleabane, is a species of flowering plant in the Asteraceae family. It is native to western North America and can be found in various habitats, from the coast to the mountains. Erigeron Speciosus is a hardy perennial that produces showy, daisy-like flowers in shades of blue, purple, and pink. The plant grows up to 2 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide, with a clumping habit and a spreading rhizome.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Erigeron |
| Species: | Erigeron Speciosus |
Appearance
Erigeron Speciosus has a clumping habit and a spreading rhizome. The plant grows up to 2 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide, with lance-shaped leaves that are hairy and toothed. The flowers are showy, daisy-like, and measure up to 2 inches across. They appear in shades of blue, purple, and pink from late spring to early summer. Erigeron Speciosus is a popular choice for rock gardens, borders, and meadows.
Care Guide
Erigeron Speciosus is a hardy perennial that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing in late summer or fall.- Soil: Erigeron Speciosus prefers well-drained, loamy soil. It can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may produce fewer flowers.- Hardiness Zones: Erigeron Speciosus is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Erigeron Speciosus is generally pest and disease resistant. However, it may be susceptible to powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot in humid conditions. Aphids and spider mites may also infest the plant. To prevent these problems, ensure good air circulation around the plant and avoid overwatering. If necessary, treat the plant with a fungicide or insecticide.
Habitat
Erigeron Speciosus is native to western North America and can be found in various habitats, from the coast to the mountains. It prefers open, sunny areas with well-drained soil, such as meadows, prairies, and rocky slopes. The plant is also commonly found in disturbed areas, such as roadsides and abandoned fields.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Erigeron Speciosus a good choice for a rock garden?
A: Yes, Erigeron Speciosus is a popular choice for rock gardens due to its clumping habit and showy flowers.
Q: Can Erigeron Speciosus tolerate some shade?
A: Yes, Erigeron Speciosus can tolerate some shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Q: When should I fertilize Erigeron Speciosus?
A: Fertilize the plant in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing in late summer or fall.
Q: Is Erigeron Speciosus deer resistant?
A: While no plant is completely deer resistant, Erigeron Speciosus is considered moderately deer resistant.
Related Plants
– Erigeron Karvinskianus- Erigeron Glaucus- Erigeron Philadelphicus- Erigeron Canadensis
References
– “Erigeron Speciosus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 11 May 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e390.- “Erigeron Speciosus.” Plant of the Week. University of Arizona Cooperative Extension. Accessed 11 May 2021. https://extension.arizona.edu/pow-erigeron-speciosus.
