Plant of the Month January 2013

Erigeron hyssopifolius

Erigeron hyssopifolius; photo by Todd Boland

Description and general information

Hyssop-leaved fleabane is a tufted plant with decumbent stems that reach 10-30 cm. The foliage is narrow, deep green and 1-3 cm in length. Flowers are mostly solitary and are produced at the ends of the stems. They measure about 1 cm in diameter. Flowers open white but become tinted pink as they age.

This North American native ranges from Newfoundland west to the Yukon and south to the northern New England States. They grow along gravelly riversides, rock ledges and crevices, often on limestone substrate.

Cultivation

This fleabane is best grown in full sun but shading from hot afternoon sun may be advised in warmer areas. They are not fussy about the soil pH as long as the soil is moist but well-drained. It is hardy to zone 2.

Bloom period

April in the south to July in the north.

Propagation

Erigeron hyssopifolius may be propagated from seed or division.

Seed

Direct sown seed sown at 20 C should germinate within a few weeks.

Division

After flowering, plants may be dug and gently teased apart.

Cuttings

Not practiced.

References

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