Erigeron aureus aka Alpine Yellow Fleabane

Erigeron aureus requires moderate care with specific attention to drainage. The main challenge is providing alpine-like conditions with excellent drainage and soil that doesn't become waterlogged. Once established in the right location, such as a rock garden, scree bed, or wall crevice, it is relatively undemanding. Growing from seed requires patience as germination can take many months, even with cold stratification treatment.

Erigeron aureus is a compact alpine perennial that typically grows to just 10cm (4 inches) tall, though it may occasionally reach 20cm (8 inches). The plant spreads to form clumps 10-50cm wide over time. It has a slow growth rate and takes 2-5 years to reach its full size.

Erigeron aureus is native to northwestern North America, specifically the Cascades and Rocky Mountains. Its natural range extends through Alberta, British Columbia, and Washington State. In the wild, it grows at high elevations between 1,500 and 3,000 meters (4,900 to 9,800 feet) on exposed ridges, rocky slopes, and in rock crevices where few other plants can survive.

Erigeron aureus is cold-hardy and can withstand temperatures down to -10°C (14°F), corresponding to RHS hardiness rating H4. As an alpine native, it tolerates cold mountain conditions well. In the UK, it thrives particularly in warmer western and southern coastal areas. The plant can tolerate both exposed and sheltered positions and handles temperature fluctuations typical of mountainous environments.

Erigeron aureus can be propagated by seed or basal cuttings. Seeds benefit from cold stratification—sow in winter or early spring and cover lightly with sand or fine grit. If germination doesn't occur within 6-12 weeks, refrigerate the seed tray for four weeks. Seeds may take many months to appear, so patience is essential. Alternatively, take basal cuttings in spring for faster results. The plant also spreads naturally through underground rhizomes.

Erigeron aureus produces solitary, bright golden-yellow daisy-like flowers approximately 2.5cm (1 inch) wide. Each flower head consists of 25-70 golden ray florets surrounding a disc of yellow florets with a green center. Blooming occurs from late spring to summer (May to July), with flowers potentially continuing into early winter in favorable conditions. Deadheading spent flowers encourages continued blooming.

Erigeron aureus is pollinated by insects, serving as an important nectar source for bees and butterflies. The RHS includes this plant on their Plants for Pollinators list. In its native alpine habitat, the bright yellow flowers attract various pollinating insects despite the harsh mountain environment. The plant also reproduces vegetatively through underground rhizomes, forming dense clumps over time.

Erigeron aureus is generally pest-free and trouble-free when grown in appropriate conditions. The main disease concern is powdery mildew, which may occur in humid conditions or when air circulation is poor. Ensuring good drainage and adequate spacing helps prevent fungal problems. Overwatering or poorly drained soil can lead to root rot, so maintaining the well-drained conditions this alpine plant requires is essential for plant health.

Erigeron aureus thrives outdoors and is not suitable as a houseplant. It is hardy to -10°C (USDA zones 5-8) and grows best in rock gardens, alpine troughs, wall crevices, and scree beds. The plant tolerates all aspects (north, south, east, or west-facing) and can handle both exposed and sheltered positions. In the UK, it performs particularly well in warmer western and southern coastal areas and is noted as being 'good for coastal gardens.'

Erigeron aureus requires minimal pruning. Deadhead spent flowers throughout the blooming season to encourage continued flowering. In autumn, cut the plant back to ground level to tidy up and prepare for winter dormancy. This simple maintenance routine helps keep the compact rosettes healthy and promotes vigorous growth the following spring.

The most popular cultivar is Erigeron aureus 'Canary Bird', which has been awarded the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit (AGM). This cultivar features the same bright buttermilk-yellow flowers as the species but has been selected for garden performance. It grows to about 12cm tall and produces abundant blooms that can continue from summer into early winter in favorable conditions.

In spring, watch for new growth emerging from the basal rosettes and take basal cuttings if propagation is desired. During summer, deadhead spent flowers regularly to extend the blooming period and ensure the soil doesn't completely dry out. In autumn, cut back all growth to ground level after flowering finishes. The plant is dormant in winter and requires no special protection in areas where temperatures stay above -10°C.

Alpine Yellow Fleabane should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Alpine Yellow Fleabane loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Alpine Yellow Fleabane requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Alpine Yellow Fleabane will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

The Alpine Yellow Fleabane should be repotted either when it doubles in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing new potting soil with all the vital nutrients annually is enough to support the growth of the plant, and thus, there is no need for fertilizer. Remember that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.