Early Bluetop Fleabane

Erigeron vetensis

Early Bluetop Fleabane

Patrick Alexander from Las Cruces, NM

Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Asteraceae
Genus:
Erigeron
Species:
Erigeron vetensis

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Forb/herb
Height:
6 in - 1 ft
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
High
Bloom Months:
may, jun, jul, aug
Bloom Colors:
White, Yellow, Blue, Purple
Ground Cover:
Yes

Native Range

United States: Colorado, Nebraska, New Mexico, Wyoming

Keystone Species Ranking

Caterpillar Keystone:
★★★☆☆ Based on number of butterfly and moth species using this genus as host plant (Source: National Wildlife Federation)
Bee Keystone:
★★☆☆☆ Based on number of native bee species using this genus for pollen and nectar (Source: National Wildlife Federation)

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
rocky, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil
pH:
6.0 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
native to mountainous regions with sparse vegetation