Erigeron strigosus, commonly known as Daisy Fleabane, is a native annual or biennial wildflower found in prairies, roadsides, old fields, woodland edges, and disturbed areas throughout Illinois. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soils, making it a hardy and adaptable species for naturalized plantings and early successional habitats.
This upright plant typically grows 1 to 3 feet tall and features narrow, lance-shaped leaves and slender, hairy stems. From late spring through summer, it produces abundant small daisy-like flowers with white to pale pink rays and yellow centers, often appearing in loose, branching clusters. The flowers attract a wide variety of pollinators, including small native bees, flies, and butterflies.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Erigeron strigosus is a useful and easy-to-grow species that supports early pollinators and adds fine texture to wildflower meadows and restoration sites. Though not commonly used in formal gardens, it pairs well with other pioneer species like Black-Eyed Susan and Wild Strawberry in sunny, naturalized plantings.
Erigeron strigosus, commonly known as Daisy Fleabane, is a native annual or biennial wildflower found in prairies, roadsides, old fields, woodland edges, and disturbed areas throughout Illinois. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soils, making it a hardy and adaptable species for naturalized plantings and early successional habitats.
This upright plant typically grows 1 to 3 feet tall and features narrow, lance-shaped leaves and slender, hairy stems. From late spring through summer, it produces abundant small daisy-like flowers with white to pale pink rays and yellow centers, often appearing in loose, branching clusters. The flowers attract a wide variety of pollinators, including small native bees, flies, and butterflies.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Erigeron strigosus is a useful and easy-to-grow species that supports early pollinators and adds fine texture to wildflower meadows and restoration sites. Though not commonly used in formal gardens, it pairs well with other pioneer species like Black-Eyed Susan and Wild Strawberry in sunny, naturalized plantings.
Bloom: late spring to mid-summer
Habitats: areas along railroads; black soil prairies; dry savannas; eroding clay banks; gravel prairies; hill prairies; limestone glades; pastures and abandoned fields; roadsides
Lifespan: biennial
Moisture: mesic to dry
Plant type (height): forb (1 to 3 feet)
Requirements: full sun
Soil: somewhat alkaline soil containing clay or gravel
