Philadelphia Fleabane (Erigeron philadelphicus)

Philadelphia Fleabane

Erigeron philadelphicus

Dainty daisy-like blooms carpet meadows with soft white-pink cheer. Herbaceous perennial wildflower; common name: Philadelphia fleabane.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerates brief dry periods and light competition from taller plants
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Watering Water deeply when the top 2 cm of soil dries out; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot
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Temperature Hardy to -30°C; adaptable to temperate and cool climates, tolerates mild summer heat
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Basal rosette of lanceolate, hairy leaves; stem leaves are smaller, clasping
  • Flower: Composite heads with white to pale pink ray florets surrounding yellow disc florets
  • Stem: Erect, green, covered in fine, bristly hairs
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist during active growth and bloom period

Fertilization

Light, balanced feed once monthly. Use diluted, low-nitrogen fertilizer to avoid excessive foliage growth

Eggshell powder topdress:Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1 tsp per plant around the base; water in to release nutrients; avoid direct root contact
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent blooms to encourage extended flowering and prevent self-seeding if desired
  • Cut back foliage to ground level after the first frost to tidy the planting area
  • Thin overcrowded clumps in early spring to improve airflow and reduce competition
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no reported toxic reactions

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse health effects from ingestion or contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Pollinator-friendly wildflower; supports native bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects