Bitter fleabane
Erigeron acris · Asteraceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant bitter fleabane: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- June to September
- Mature size
- 12 to 24 inches tall
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -4 °F)
- Origin
- Temperate Europe and Asia
- Soil type
- Well-drained, even poor
Care
Exposure
Plant your acrid fleabane in full sun for optimal flowering. It also tolerates partial shade but will flower less abundantly. Avoid dense shade, which significantly reduces flower production.
Watering
Water moderately, especially during the growing season and in prolonged dry spells. Once established, this plant is quite tolerant of drought. Let the soil dry slightly between waterings to prevent waterlogging.
Soil and Planting
Acrid fleabane adapts to most soils, even poor or rocky ones, as long as they are well-drained. Improve overly compacted soil with sand or gravel. Plant in spring or autumn.
Pruning and Maintenance
Prune lightly after flowering to encourage compact growth and a new flush of blooms. In late winter, cut back dead stems to ground level. This plant self-seeds naturally; control seedlings if you don't want them.
Fertilizer
No fertilizer is needed on decently fertile soil. On very poor soil, add compost in spring. Excess nitrogen promotes foliage at the expense of flowers.
Diseases and Pests
Very resistant, acrid fleabane mainly fears waterlogging, which can cause root rot. Ensure good air circulation and drainage. It is not very susceptible to pests.
Did you know?
The name "acris" means "acrid" or "pungent" in Latin, referring to the plant's bitter taste, which was once used in traditional medicine. Its tiny star-shaped mauve flowers attract pollinators vigorously, particularly wild bees and butterflies.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.