Oneflower fleabane
Erigeron uniflorus · Asteraceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant oneflower fleabane: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- Summer (June to August)
- Adult size
- 15 to 30 cm tall
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -20°C)
- Origin
- Arctic and alpine regions of North America
- Soil type
- Well-drained, poor to medium
Care
Sunlight
Place your fleabane in full sun for optimal flowering; it tolerates partial shade in hot climates. This alpine plant appreciates direct light for at least 6 hours per day. Avoid dense shaded areas that reduce flowering.
Watering
Water moderately during growth, letting the soil dry slightly between waterings. Once established, fleabane is very tolerant of drought thanks to its deep root system. In winter, reduce watering considerably.
Soil and drainage
Choose well-drained, gravelly or sandy soil, poor to medium in organic matter. Avoid compacted and wet soils that promote root rot. Adding gravel or sand improves drainage if your soil is heavy.
Pruning and maintenance
Remove faded flowers to encourage new blooms and maintain a compact form. In late autumn, cut back dry stems to ground level. No severe pruning is needed; this plant grows naturally in an upright tuft.
Fertilizer
Fleabane prefers poor soils and needs only a light application of balanced fertilizer in spring. Overfeeding promotes foliage at the expense of flowers. A compost mulch at the start of the season is ample.
Diseases and pests
This plant is generally very resistant to diseases and pests. Excess moisture remains the main risk, potentially causing mildew or root rot. Ensure excellent drainage and avoid leaf watering late in the day.
Did you know?
Erigeron uniflorus gets its Latin name from the Greek "eri" (very) and "geron" (old man), as the seed is topped with a white pappus reminiscent of white hair. This charming alpine plant flowers even at very high altitudes and in arctic regions, where few plants dare to venture.
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.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.