Beautiful Fleabane

(Erigeron formosissimus)

Beautiful Fleabane (Erigeron formosissimus)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Erigeron formosissimus, commonly known as Beautiful Fleabane, is a deciduous perennial herb native to open woodlands and meadows in the Southwestern United States, particularly in Arizona and New Mexico. It typically grows up to 55 centimeters (22 inches) in height and spreads through underground rhizomes. Beautiful Fleabane is characterized by its daisy-like flower heads, which bloom in summer. Each stem can produce 1-6 flower heads, with each head featuring an array of 150 white, pink, purple, or blue ray florets encircling numerous yellow disc florets. The flowers are notably showy and attract a variety of pollinators.

Beautiful Fleabane is valued for its vibrant and abundant flowers that add color to wildflower gardens, borders, and naturalized areas. It is drought-tolerant, making it suitable for xeriscaping and low-water gardens. This plant thrives in full sun and prefers soils with medium drainage, although it can tolerate a range of soil conditions. While generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and should be spaced adequately to ensure good air circulation.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 1.5-2 feet
  • Width: 2-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: White, Purple, Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Open woodlands and meadows in the Southwestern United States

Other Names

Common Names:

Scientific Names: , Erigeron formosissimus, Erigeron smithii, Erigeron pecosensis, Erigeron formosissimus var. typicus, Erigeron deminutus, Erigeron fruticetorum, Erigeron gulielmi, Erigeron hirtuosus, Erigeron iodanthus

GBIF Accepted Name: Erigeron formosissimus Greene