Pulicaria dysenterica
Pulicaria dysenterica · Asteraceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant pulicaria dysenterica: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- July to September
- Adult size
- 30 to 60 cm in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Hardy down to -15°C
- Origin
- Temperate Europe and Asia
- Soil type
- Moist to very moist, tolerant
Care
Watering
Fleabane loves constantly moist soil and thrives in marshy areas or near water. Water regularly during growth and flowering to keep the soil fresh. During dry spells, increase watering frequency to prevent excessive drying out.
Light exposure
Place this plant in full sun or partial shade for optimal flowering. It tolerates humid and poorly lit areas well. A location with at least 4 to 5 hours of direct sunlight encourages better flowering.
Soil and planting
Prefer soil rich in organic matter, moist to very moist, or even temporarily waterlogged. This species adapts to acidic or neutral soils. It's ideal for banks, wet meadows and water retention areas.
Pruning and maintenance
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a compact shape and encourage branching. In late winter, cut back dead stems to ground level. This operation promotes vigorous regrowth in spring.
Fertilizing
A spring application of well-decomposed compost is generally sufficient for this undemanding plant. In poor soil, diluted balanced fertilizer can support growth and flowering. Avoid excess that would promote lush foliage at the expense of flowers.
Diseases and pests
Fleabane is generally robust and rarely subject to serious diseases. In case of stagnant excess moisture, watch for root rot. Good drainage and sufficient aeration prevent most problems.
Did you know?
Fleabane owes its scientific name 'dysenterica' to traditional usage: it was once used in folk medicine to treat digestive disorders and dysentery. Its common name 'fleabane' (from 'pulex', the flea in Latin) also evokes its former repellent uses, though these properties were more symbolic than truly effective.
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.