Flaxleaf fleabane (Erigeron bonariensis)

Also known as: Flax-leaf fleabane, Hairy horseweed, Argentine fleabane

Flaxleaf fleabane (Erigeron bonariensis) is an annual weed recognized by its blue-green leaves. It often sprouts in urban settings, such as cracks in driveways and sidewalks. You can also find it in pastures, gardens, and along roadsides. The plant produces numerous seeds that are spread by wind, animals, vehicles, and people.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Flaxleaf fleabane

Lifespan

Annual, Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

10 cm to 1.5 m

Spread

30 cm to 38 cm

Leaf Color

Green Silver Gray

Flower Size

6 mm

Flower Color

Green White Yellow Cream Purple Gold

Images of Flaxleaf fleabane

Quickly Identify Flaxleaf fleabane

Rough texture from stiff bristles covering stems, leaves, and flowers.

Daisy-like flowers with purple and white hues, featuring central disk and threadlike rays.

Distinctive spherical fruit resembling a 'puffball' with cream-colored, bristly head.

Gray-green linear to lanceolate leaves, 1-3 inches (2.5-7.5 cm) in length.

Prominently striated, stiff-haired stems, green to reddish-brown, up to 0.4 inches (1 cm) in diameter.

Scientific Classification of Flaxleaf fleabane

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Asterales

Family

Daisy

Genus

Fleabanes

Species

Flaxleaf fleabane

Planting and Growing of Flaxleaf fleabane

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Flaxleaf fleabane?

For Erigeron bonariensis, it's important to water until the soil feels moist, but not soggy. Approximately 250 ml per session should be enough. Ensure that the top layer of soil is dry before the next watering, as this plant prefers a semi-dry environment to avoid root rot.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Flaxleaf fleabane? ›

What should I do if my Flaxleaf fleabane is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Flaxleaf fleabane? ›

How to save an overwatered Flaxleaf fleabane? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Flaxleaf fleabane?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

Ideal light range is full sun to partial sun. Adequate sunlight ensures lush foliage and prolific blooming, making the plant a vibrant addition to gardens or home areas.

How to Achieve Ideal Lighting? ›

Where to Place the Plant? ›

Advantages of Receiving Ideal Light ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Flaxleaf fleabane?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

The ideal temperature range for growing Erigeron bonariensis is between 60°F and 75°F. This range allows the plant to efficiently carry out its physiological processes, promoting robust growth and optimal flowering. Maintaining these temperatures ensures that the plant avoids any stress related to cold or heat, allowing it to thrive in suitable conditions.

What Soil is Best for Flaxleaf fleabane?

Soil type: Sandy soil, Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Erigeron bonariensis thrives in well-draining soil that prevents waterlogging and root rot. This requirement ensures the plant's roots receive adequate oxygen and avoids stunted growth. The plant prefers moderately fertile soil which provides sufficient nutrients without excessive richness. This balance enhances growth while avoiding over-fertilization, which can lead to weaker structures. While well-draining, the soil should retain some moisture to support steady growth. This balance helps maintain hydration without drowning the roots.

How to Fertilize Flaxleaf fleabane?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Erigeron bonariensis, a balanced liquid fertilizer should be diluted to half-strength. Use approximately 1 teaspoon of 10-10-10 liquid fertilizer per gallon of water. Ensure even coverage across the soil, focusing on the root zone for optimal absorption.

How to Prune Flaxleaf fleabane?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Over-pruning can lead to stress, reducing bloom and vigor. Never remove more than a third of the plant at one time. Doing so ensures the plant continues to thrive and produce beautiful flowers. After pruning, monitor the plant for any signs of pests, as open cuts can sometimes attract insects or disease. Early detection and treatment can save the plant from potential damage. Avoid pruning on very hot, cold, or humid days, as these conditions can stress the plant or encourage disease. Choose a mild, dry day to perform any major pruning tasks.

How to Propagate Flaxleaf fleabane plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early summer

Collect seeds from mature flowers and dry them thoroughly. This step ensures that the seeds are viable and ready to germinate when they are sown.

Sow the seeds thinly on the surface of compost in a seed tray. Lightly cover with a fine layer of soil, as some seeds require light to germinate.

Select healthy, disease-free stems and cut sections around 10cm long. Remove lower leaves to promote growth and dip in rooting hormone to encourage rooting.

How to Repot Flaxleaf fleabane plant?

Repotting frequency: Every two years

Repot Erigeron bonariensis when you see roots overcrowding or growing through the drainage holes, indicating a lack of space. Additionally, stunted growth or soil that dries out too quickly are signs that repotting might be necessary.

Choose a pot that's 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. This allows the roots enough space to grow, ensuring proper stability and nutrient uptake. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.

Opt for a well-draining potting mix, ideally a combination of peat, perlite, and a small amount of organic matter. This soil mix ensures good aeration and drainage, preventing root suffocation and promoting healthy growth.

Toxicity of Flaxleaf fleabane

Is Flaxleaf fleabane toxic to humans?

Flaxleaf fleabane may induce dermatitis in certain individuals if there is direct contact between any part of the plant and their skin. Therefore, it is recommended to utilize protective gear, like gloves, and to wear long sleeves when interacting with this plant. Furthermore, research indicates that flaxleaf fleabane can provoke hay fever symptoms, which may include a runny nose, watery or itchy eyes, itching in the nose, throat, mouth, and ears, as well as headaches, earaches, a temporary reduction in smell, and feelings of lethargy.

Is Flaxleaf fleabane toxic to cat?

Flaxleaf fleabane poses a serious toxicity risk to cats, potentially leading to considerable health issues. Cats may suffer from poisoning if they unintentionally consume any part of the plant, especially the leaves. Signs of distress and illness can surface after exposure, varying in presentation based on the specific cat and the quantity ingested. It is vital for cat owners to keep a close watch on their pets for any unusual symptoms if they suspect that flaxleaf fleabane has been ingested. Should poisoning occur, seeking immediate veterinary care is essential to guarantee the cat receives necessary treatment and attention.

Is Flaxleaf fleabane toxic to dog?

Flaxleaf fleabane is recognized as toxic to dogs. If dogs inadvertently consume sections of flaxleaf fleabane, especially the leaves, they risk poisoning. The signs of poisoning in dogs may manifest as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or more serious symptoms based on the quantity ingested and the individual dog's sensitivity. It is essential for dog owners to vigilantly observe their pets and restrict their access to flaxleaf fleabane. Should a dog be suspected of having ingested any part of flaxleaf fleabane, seeking immediate veterinary assistance is crucial for prompt treatment and achieving the most favorable outcome.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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