Fleabane (Erigeron)

September 2022

Erigeron is a genus of flowering plants in the daisy family Asteraceae (Aster).

It has over 500 species worldwide, mostly found in temperate regions. They are known as alpine daisies because they prefer high altitudes. Some of them are cultivated as ornamental plants.

This plant is also called Fleabane and Daisy Fleabane. In addition to being a beautiful flower, it is also useful for medicinal purposes.

There are different species of Erigeron, such as Erigeron acris, Erigeron annuus, Erigeron caespitosum, Erigeron floribundus, Erigeron glabrescens, Erigeron karvinskianus, Erigeron glaucus, Erigeron canadensis, Erigeron strigosis and so on.

Erigeron are easy to grow perennials. You'll want to plant them in full sun and give them plenty of room to spread out. If you've got a spot where you'd like some color, try planting different varieties together.

The plant contains volatile oils which contain sesquiterpenoids, triterpenoids, flavones, phenolic acids, and polyacetylenes. These compounds may be responsible for the medicinal properties of the herb. The leaves contain flavonoids which are anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

In traditional Chinese medicine, this herb is used to treat fever, coughs, colds, sore throats, bronchitis, pneumonia, asthma, and other respiratory problems.

Fleabane (Erigeron)

How to Grow

Plant seeds in spring after all danger of frost has passed.
Keep moist but not soggy.
Provide full sun.
Water regularly during the growing season.
Fertilize with compost tea once every two weeks.
Cut back spent blooms to encourage new growth.
Divide clumps when necessary.

How to propagate Erigeron

They are easy to grow, and do well in most soils. You can start seed indoors about six weeks prior to planting out. If you want to plant seeds directly into the garden, it’s best to wait until the soil warms up.

You can divide plants every three months once they have reached 3 inches tall. To divide, simply cut off the bottom half of each stem, and replant the pieces vertically.

If you want to propagate your own plants, you can take cuttings from the tips of young stems. Simply pinch them off with your fingers, and insert them into moist potting mix. Keep the pots warm, but not too hot. Water regularly, and keep the leaves dry. Once roots form, transplant the cuttings into individual containers filled with potting mix.

Fleabane (Erigeron)

Medicinal uses of Erigeron

Erigeron has been used for centuries to treat colds, coughs, sore throats, fever, headaches, and other ailments.
Erigeron is also thought to relieve stress and anxiety. It's said to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
It has long been used to treat bronchial conditions such as asthma and emphysema.
It has also been shown to inhibit the growth of cancerous tumors.
Erigeron has also been found to help prevent heart disease by lowering cholesterol levels.
Erigeron helps to stimulate circulation and improve blood flow.
This herb is also helpful for treating arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Erigeron can also help to ease menstrual cramps.
Erigeron stimulates the immune system and fights infection.
Erigeron relieves pain and promotes.
Erigeron is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, D, B6, and K. It also contains calcium, magnesium, iron, potassium, phosphorus, zinc, copper, manganese, selenium, and molybdenum.
Erigeron has traditionally been used to help prevent infections by strengthening the immune system.
It is believed that Erigeron helps balance hormones, and reduces blood pressure.
It is also known to lower cholesterol level.