Family: Asteraceae
Common Name: Fleabane

This large genus of perennial daisies originates predominantly from North America. They have thin, basal leaves and mostly erect stems, and produce masses of daisy-like flowers in varying colours with yellow centers. They differ from other daisies in having two or more rows of fine, thread-like petals. Fleabanes look very pretty in rockeries or at the front of borders where a splash of colour is needed.

Species

E. alpinus, zone 5, is a hairy perennial, to 30 cm (12 in), with purple flowers, usually borne singly in summer and autumn.

E. aureus, zone 5, produces bright yellow flowers from the spring onwards.

E. glaucus, beach aster or sea-side daisy, zone 3, is a hardy, sprawling, rather succulent plant, to 15 cm (6 in), with hairy leaves and pink to purple, summer flowers.

E. x Hybridus, zone 6, has provided a range of attractive cultivars raised from crossing a number of species. They include '(Zuakeress', 'Dignity', 'Pink Triumph', 'Vanity' and 'Wuppertal'. Most grow to about 30-45 cm (12-18 in) tall.

E. karvinskianus, zone 7, is a popular rockery plant, also useful for paved areas as it self-seeds between cracks. It has trail­ing branches to 1 m (3 ft) long and tends to spread, requiring cutting back after summer and autumn flowering. The flowers change in colour from white through pink to purple and bloom abundantly throughout the year in mild climates. It grows up to 45 cm (18 in). This plant is becoming a noxious weed in some parts of the world.

E. speciosus, zone 3, to 45 cm (18 in), has leafy stems and clusters of striking, violet flowers in summer and autumn. This species provides excellent cut flowers.

Cultivation

All species like a moderately fertile, well-drained soil, shelter from strong winds and a sunny position, with the exception of E. karvinskianus, which tolerates semi-shade. They may need cutting back frequently as they spread rapidly, and the stems should be trimmed after flowering. Propagate from seed in autumn or by division of the clumps in autumn or spring.

Climate

There are species suited to various cli­matic zones.