Beach Aster, Seaside fleabane
Erigeron glaucus
Family: Asteraceae or Compositae
What it is like
Erigeron glaucus is an evergreen Perennial growing to 0.3 m (1ft) by 0.2 m (0ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. It is in leaf all year, in flower from May to August, and the seeds ripen from June to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies), bees. The plant is self-fertile. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.
Height (m): 0.3
Where it is found
Sea bluffs and sandy beaches under the influence of water.
South-western N. America. Occasionally naturalized in Britain.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating:
Plants can be grown as a ground cover when spaced about 45cm apart each way.
Attracts Wildlife: Plants noted for attracting wildlife
Ground cover: Ground Cover
Scented Plants: Plants noted for their scent
How it is grown
Prefers a moderately fertile well-drained soil in a sunny position. Best in a sandy dry soil. Succeeds in fairly heavy soils. Succeeds in very exposed positions and grows best in mild maritime areas. Intolerant of winter damp. Plants are hardy to about -10°c. A good butterfly and moth plant. There are some named varieties selected for their ornamental value. The bruised leaves have a balsamic perfume. Does well in the border or rock garden. Very few members of this genus will hybridise with other members of the genus.
Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in situ. The seed usually germinates within four weeks. Division in spring or autumn. Larger clumps can be replanted direct into their permanent positions, though it is best to pot up smaller clumps and grow them on in a cold frame until they are rooting well. Plant them out in the spring. Basal cuttings in spring. Harvest the shoots when they are about 5 - 10cm long with plenty of underground stem. Pot them up into individual pots and keep them in light shade in a cold frame or greenhouse until they are rooting well. Plant them out in the summer. Cuttings of semi-ripe shoots in summer.
Best place to grow: Ground Cover; Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: 3-7
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Dry, moist