Annual Fleabane
Erigeron annuus
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Pl. D740 — Erigeron annuus
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IOverview
Overview
Annual Fleabane (Erigeron annuus) is a light-loving herb that thrives in moist to well-drained soils of various types, from sandy to clay. Native to regions including Alabama, Arkansas, and California, this plant can also be found across North America and parts of Central America. Known for its edible leaves, which are often used in culinary applications, Annual Fleabane is a versatile addition to gardens or landscapes. Its distinctive features include a height of up to 1 meter and an annual life cycle, making it a reliable choice for gardeners interested in both ornamental and edible plants.
Quick answers
What is Annual Fleabane?
Annual Fleabane (Erigeron annuus) is a light-loving herb that thrives in moist to well-drained soils of various types, from sandy to clay. Native to regions including Alabama, Arkansas, and California, this plant can also be found across North America and parts of Central America.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Annual Fleabane thrives in light to medium soil with a pH of 7-7.5 and requires moist conditions. It prefers full sun to partial shade and is hardy in zones 3-8. For propagation, seeds can be sown directly in the garden after the last frost. The plant grows up to 1 meter tall and is suitable for temperate regions. Harvest edible leaves throughout the growing season. Skip if outside its native range or not suited to your local climate.
Light
8/10
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
3-8
Life cycle
Annual, Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
1.0 m tall
Soil pH
7–7.5
For first-time growers
How to grow Annual Fleabane for the first time
8steps
Start with Annual Fleabane as a simple, low-maintenance addition to your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or seedlings, a small trowel, and a watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost, when temperatures are mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a spot with light to medium soil that drains well. Ensure the pH is between 7-7.5.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the garden or start them indoors 4 weeks before planting outside. Transplant seedlings when they have two sets of true leaves.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide consistent watering, especially during dry spells. Deadhead flowers to encourage more blooms.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune back any dead or yellowing leaves to maintain plant health. Cut flower heads for dried arrangements if desired.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil, and neglecting to prune.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The leaves of the Annual Fleabane (Erigeron annuus) are edible and can be consumed raw or cooked. Typically, they are used fresh in salads for their mild flavor. The plant thrives in moist, light to medium soil with a pH between 7 and 7.5, making it suitable for gardens with similar conditions.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 30 native
Asia1 region
native (1)Georgia
Americas1 region
native (1)Nicaragua
Broader regions
native:New Hampshire, North Carolina, Mississippi, New Brunswick, New Jersey, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Massachusetts, Arkansas, California, New York, Connecticut, Manitoba, British Columbia, Michigan, Delaware, Florida, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Nova Scotia
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · d7407075-a644-43e7-80b9-60face2df076
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