Erigeron speciosus (Showy Fleabane)

Erigeron speciosus (Showy Fleabane) is a vigorous, upright and well branched, clump-forming perennial producing masses of pink, lavender or white flowers, 1-2 in. across (2-5 cm), adorned with over 100 ray florets surrounding a yellow disk. Blooming for months from summer to fall, the blossoms attract bees, butterflies and other insects. They are held well above the foliage of narrowly-oval, gray-green leaves. This Erigeron has one of the showiest heads, hence the common name. Charming in a mixed border.

• Grows up to 24 in. tall and wide (60 cm). Showy fleabane will form colonies.
• Easily grown in fertile, well-drained soils in full sun to light shade. Do not let the soil dry out in summer.
• Great for beds and borders, cottage gardens, coastal gardens, city gardens.
• Virtually disease free. Keep an eye out for powdery mildews.
• Deadhead to encourage further flowering. Cut back after flowering to reduce weediness and rejuvenate the foliage.
• Propagate by division or from basal softwood cuttings in the spring.
• Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses.
• Native to the western US.