Cutleaf Daisy

(Erigeron compositus)

Cutleaf Daisy (Erigeron compositus)

Nolan Exe

CC BY 4.0

Image By: Nolan Exe

Recorded By:

Estimated Native Range

Summary

Erigeron compositus, commonly known as Cutleaf Daisy, is a perennial herb native to alpine and subalpine areas, as well as dry rocky sites in the mountainous regions of western North America. Rarely exceeding a height of 25 cm (10 in), this plant is characterized by a dense rosette of basal leaves, each deeply lobed or cut, giving rise to its common name. The leaves are typically green, sometimes with a hint of gray due to a fine layer of hairs. Cutleaf Daisy produces a sturdy taproot and propagates through horizontal underground rhizomes. Flowering occurs from late spring to early summer, with each stem typically bearing a single flower head. These heads consist of 20–60 ray florets that can be white, pink, or blue, often with a subtle, understated appearance that may lead them to be overlooked in favor of the more prominent yellow disc florets at the center.

The Cutleaf Daisy is appreciated for its hardiness and ability to thrive in challenging environments, making it suitable for rock gardens, alpine collections, and as a ground cover in xeriscaped areas. Its modest water needs and preference for well-drained soils make it a low-maintenance choice for gardeners seeking drought-tolerant plants. While it prefers full sun, it can tolerate some shade, especially in hotter climates. There are no major disease problems associated with this plant, but it may require protection from overgrazing if deer are present in the area. Its non-aggressive nature makes it a good neighbor to other plants in a mixed planting.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

Plant Type: Herb
Height: 0.5-1 feet
Width: 0.5-1 feet
Growth Rate: Moderate
Flower Color: White
Flowering Season: Spring
Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

Sun: Full Sun
Water: Low, Medium
Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Native to alpine and subalpine areas, as well as dry rocky sites in the mountainous regions of western North America

Other Names

Common Names: Dwarf Mountain Fleabane, Trifid Mountain Fleabane, Compound Fleabane, Cut-Leaved Daisy, Cut-Leaved Fleabane, Fern-Leaved Fleabane, Vergerette À Feuilles Segmentées, Vergerette À Feuilles Divisées, Fernleaf Fleabane

Scientific Names: , Erigeron compositus, Erigeron compositus var. discoideus, Erigeron compositus var. glabratus, Erigeron compositus var. compositus, Erigeron compositus subsp. discoideus, Erigeron compositus var. multifidus, Erigeron compositus var. incertus, Erigeron multifidus, Erigeron compositus var. petraeus

GBIF Accepted Name: Erigeron compositus Pursh