Introducing...
Erigeron
Botanical name: Erigeron
Common name: fleabane
Erigeron is a large genus of daisy-like perennials and annuals in the aster family and ranges from ground-hugging alpines to taller plants suitable for mixed borders. Appreciated for their long flowering season and informal looks, many are ideal for cottage gardens and gravel planting or spilling from walls or containers.
Looks
Though varying in size, they often form mounds of narrow, green leaves, topped with masses of small flowers with yellow centres. Petals range across the spectrum from white and pink to lavender, purple and blue, with a few in yellow or orange.
Likes
Erigeron thrive in well-drained soil and full sun but tolerate partial shade. Once established, they are drought-tolerant and well-suited to dry, poor soils and coastal gardens. Some, like the Mexican fleabane (Erigeron karvinskianus), spread naturally into cracks in paving or walls.
Dislikes
They dislike heavy, poorly drained soils and overly rich conditions, which can lead to root rot or leggy growth. Wet winters without good drainage can damage the roots.
Did you know?
The name fleabane comes from the old belief that dried Erigeron leaves could repel fleas. However, with their flat, open flowers many species are definitely attractive to pollinators.
Erigeron we recommend
Erigeron aureus 'Canary Bird'
fleabane 'Canary Bird'
- Up to 10cm
- 0.1–0.5 metres
Erigeron 'Dunkelste Aller'
fleabane 'Dunkelste Aller'
- 0.5–1 metres
- 0.1–0.5 metres
Erigeron aureus 'Canary Bird'
fleabane 'Canary Bird'
- Up to 10cm
- 0.1–0.5 metres
Erigeron 'Dunkelste Aller'
fleabane 'Dunkelste Aller'
- 0.5–1 metres
- 0.1–0.5 metres
Useful advice
Hardy annuals: sowing in spring
Alpines for dry stone walls
Seed: collecting and storing
Drought-resistant plants
Drought pink and white
Sandy soils: plants for
How to grow annuals and biennials
How to grow perennial plants
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.