Despite its native status, fleabane is alsosometimes referred to as a weed.
It is not invasive but can self-seed, self-fertilize, and grow aggressively in ideal conditions.
For this reason, it is most commonly used in wildlife gardens and natural landscapes.
Credit: Denny Schrock
It’s also worth noting that fleabane is considered mildly toxic to dogs, cats, and horses.
Use caution when planting it in areas where animals play or graze.
Where to Plant Fleabane
There are approximately 390 species of fleabane worldwide.
Credit: Denny Schrock
Gardeners rarely opt for intentional fleabane plantings because the plant can be weedy.
However, there are many well-behaved fleabane hybrids.
Fleabane is also great for naturalized areas and prairie ormeadow plantings.
Credit: Peter Krumhardt
In optimum growing conditions, fleabane will self-seed, producing a new crop of plants every year.
Backfill the hole and tamp the soil down gently.
If you pack the soil too tightly, the roots may struggle to take in nutrients and water.
Credit: Perry L. Struse
If you are planting more than one fleabane plant, place them approximately 12 to 18 inches apart.
To grow fleabane from seed, start in the spring or early fall.
That means it requires little (if any) care once established.
Credit: Greg Ryan
Most fleabane varieties need no supplemental watering once establishedexcept inprolonged hot, dry temperatures.
Temperature and Humidity
Fleabane temperature and humidity preferences vary dramatically depending on variety.
In prolonged, hot temperatures, your fleabane may lose color, curl, and wilt.
Credit: Richard Hirneisen
Avoid fertilizing in the late fall and throughout the winter.
Pruning
Fleabane does not require pruning, but you candeadhead spent flowersto prolong the blooming period.
Keep the container in a sunny location.
Credit: Mavis Augustine Torke
No other early care is required.
Germination should begin in 2 to 4 weeks.
Pests and Problems
In some areas, fleabane is prone to attacks from aphids and spider mites.
As for diseases, leaf spots, rust, and powdery mildew may occasionally cause fleabane trouble.
How to Propagate Fleabane
The easiest way to propagate fleabane is via division.
Dig around the edges of the roots and lift the whole plant from the ground.
Replant the separated sections approximately 12 to 18 inches apart and water thoroughly.
The flowers start white and slowly shift to pink and then purple.
It grows best in fertile, well-drained soil and full sun in zones 6-9.
It features flowers with a yellow central disk and white petals with pink rays.
Featherleaf Fleabane
Featherleaf fleabane (Erigeron pinnatisectus) features lavender-blue flowers and feathery, divided leaves.
It often grows in rock crevices and bedrock in areas where pH levels are higher.
This species features narrow, tapering leaves and daisy-like flowers with yellow center disks and pink to white petals.
Rocky Mountain Fleabane
Rocky Mountain fleabane (Erigeron grandiflorus) is also known as large-flower fleabane.
It grows at or above the tree line in the mountain ranges of the western United States and Canada.
It produces just one flower per stem and can stand about 10 inches tall.
Spreading Fleabane
Spreading fleabane (Erigeron divergens) is a fleabane species hardy in zones 2-10.
It is more cold-tolerant than other fleabane species and is typically grown as an annual or perennial.
Bee Balm
Speaking of pollinators,bee balmis a sure bet for bringing pollinators to the garden.
Bee balm is known for its vigorous growth and long bloom time.
It needs similar growing conditions as fleabane, so they are excellent garden roommates in zones 3-9.
Black-Eyed Susan
Black-eyed Susanis a perennial garden staple in zones 3-11.
It is hardy in zones 3-11.
Coneflower
Coneflowersare low-maintenance prairie natives that draw in a steady stream of birds and butterflies.
Like fleabane, coneflowers love full sun and well-drained soil.
Coneflowers bloom from summer to fall in zones 3-9.
This easy-care perennial features lance-like gray-green foliage and long-lasting white flowers that attract butterflies.
The flowers also dry well, making them perfect for craft projects.
The result is a long-lasting garden that requires minimal maintenance and almost year-round appeal.
Weve also added a few annuals to this plan that can be refreshed every growing season.
They arent required but will help spice up the bed’s look without having to replant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Unfortunately, fleabane does not live up to its folkloric name.
you’re able to also use an herbicide on young plants to eradicate growth.
Spread the roots across the hole and fill the rest of the space with more potting mix.
If your region gets a reasonable amount of rainfall, you should not need supplemental watering.
ASPCA- Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants.
American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
