Erigeron pulchellus aka Robin's Plantain

Erigeron pulchellus is known as robin's plantain or blue spring daisy. It belongs to the aster family. This wildflower grows in central and eastern North America. Its range includes Ontario and Quebec, south to Florida and Texas. It grows in open woods, fields, and beside streams. Other sites include rocky slopes, thickets, and roadsides. Plants live for two years or as short-lived perennials.

Garden plants stand 1–2 feet (0.30–0.61 metres) tall. They spread 1.5–2 feet (0.46–0.61 metres) wide. Upright flower stems rise from a clump of basal leaves. These green leaves feel soft and have a paddle shape. Their edges have shallow teeth or rounded notches. Smaller leaves clasp the stems and alternate along them. Most leaf hairs grow on the undersides. The green stems are hollow, hairy, and do not branch. Runners form new plants before the parent plant dies.

Flowers open from April to June in small clusters. Each cluster holds two to six flower heads. Thin rays range from white to pale violet or lavender. They surround a flat yellow disc at the centre. Each head has about 30–50 rays. Both the rays and central disc flowers are fertile. Bees and butterflies visit the blooms for food. Small fruits appear in June and July. Each fruit is an achene with a tuft of hairs. Wind carries the seeds away from the parent plant.

Grow this plant in soil that drains well. It accepts clay, loam, sand, and shallow rocky ground. Sandy or rocky soils suit it well. Choose poor to average soil rather than rich, fertilized ground. It grows in full sun or partial shade. Some shade helps in places with hot summers. The plant tolerates heat, humidity, dry soil, and drought. Dry to moderately moist conditions suit it. It grows in USDA zones 3–8 and needs little care. Propagation methods include seeds, division, and cuttings.

Use robin's plantain as ground cover or along border fronts. It also suits slopes, rock gardens, meadows, and native plant gardens. Seeds and runners help it spread through suitable sites. Growth is moderate, and serious pest or disease troubles are uncommon. Rust, leaf spots, and powdery mildew can occur. Plants For A Future lists no known food or medicinal uses. That source also reports no known hazards.