Annual Fleabane
Erigeron annuus · Herbaceous Annual/Biennial (Not a Tree)
Plant Family
Asteraceae
Tree Category
Wildflower / Herbaceous Weed
Variety / Cultivar
Not applicable (Wild species)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 2-11 (highly adaptable herb)
About This Tree
While not a tree, this herbaceous plant grows upright with a central hairy stem. It produces clusters of small daisy-like composite flowers with yellow centers and numerous thin white ray petals.
Leaf Characteristics
Basal leaves are ovate and coarsely toothed; stem leaves are alternate, lanceolate, and become smaller and sessile higher up the stalk.
Bark Characteristics
No bark; features a light green, ridged, and distinctly hairy (pubescent) herbaceous stem.
Growing Information
Origin Region
North America; widely naturalized in Europe and Asia.
Growing Season
Emerges in spring, flowers from late spring through autumn, dies back after seeding.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun to partial shade; prefers moist to mesic conditions and can tolerate disturbed soils.
Mature Size
Mature height of 1 to 5 feet; spread of 6 to 12 inches; fast growth rate; annual or biennial lifespan.
Special Characteristics
Highly prolific seeder; pioneer species in disturbed ground; historically used in folk medicine for its astringent properties.
Wildlife & Ecology
Attracts small bees, flies, and butterflies for nectar; seeds are consumed by some small birds; provides habitat for predatory insects.